Feb. 25 LW Weekly
Page 1, General News
AES opens battery project
The AES Alamitos Energy Center, an electricity generation station next door to Leisure World on Studebaker Road, has just completed construction of a new battery energy storage system (BESS). This completes a years-long overhaul that includes two new gas-fired, air-cooled power plants.
The facility will replace the old Alamitos Generating Station, which has produced electricity since 1956. AES is located adjacent to the LA Department of Water and Power Haynes Steam Plant.
AES’ battery storage project is one of the largest in the world, according to company officials. BESS is a 45,000-square-foot battery facility that will produce 400 megawatt-hours when fully charged, meaning it can produce 100 megawatts for four hours. The facility can start or stop electricity flow or recharge almost instantly, said Mark Miller, AES market business director for California.
More than 1 million lithium-ion battery units linked in the building take in electricity during low-demand times of the day, then put the electricity back into the regional grid when demand is high, such as in the evening and during hot summer afternoons.
With the growing availability of renewable energy sources, primarily solar and wind, there is more demand for electricity storage. The battery facility can store solar energy during the day for use at night, when solar isn’t available.
Construction of the Alamitos BESS began in late June 2019 and opened on schedule, with electricity being stored beginning Jan. 1. The battery plant is operated by a small crew, as few as two people. Lithium-ion components, just like commercial rechargeable batteries, become less efficient over time and will be gradually replaced as they age
The Alamitos Energy Center is the modernization of the AES Generating Station and includes the Alamitos BESS as well as a new gas-fired combined cycle gas turbines (CCGT), which began construction in 2017 and finished last year.
LW residents are familiar with the loud hissing and steam plumes that periodically erupted from AES in late 2019 as part of the commissioning of the new CCGT units. This commissioning a new plant entails testing to ensure it meets design specifications and can operate safely and effectively. This includes the first fire of the gas turbines—the first times the units are turned on, steam blows, a steam purity run and the initial steam turbine run before the final performance testing of the entire plant.
Steam blows are an important part of the commissioning phase due to their effectiveness in removing construction debris from newly installed steam systems, among other functions.
During a steam blow, steam is released from the steam tube system and vented to the atmosphere, creating the billowing plumes that were seen in LW. A high-pressure steam release also creates a loud hissing sound. AES routinely sent company representatives to LW to explain the process as it unfolded between 2017 to the present. Sound levels never violated the Seal Beach noise ordinance, and the steam blows were temporary and are not be a part of normal operations.
Three of the six older units were retired in 2019, and the remaining three were scheduled to retire in 2020. However, in 2020 the California Public Utilities Commission passed a regulation saying the three remaining old water-cooled generators had to continue operation until 2023 as a backup for electrical supply.
Once that requirement is removed, AES plans to demolish the old generators and their tall exhaust towers that are visible on the LW skyline, especially from Clubhouse 2.
Compared to the old steam generators, the new plants improve efficiency and reduce emission rates, increase operating flexibility enabling the integration of renewable energy, eliminate the use of ocean water for cooling, and reduce the use of fresh water by about 70 percent.
COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics have been rescheduled
OptumCare’s second-dose clinics scheduled for Feb. 20 and 21 at Clubhouse 6 were rescheduled for this weekend due to a winter storm that delayed delivery of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Those who were scheduled for the Feb. 20 clinic will return instead this Saturday, Feb. 27, and those who were scheduled for shots Feb. 21 will get their shots Sunday, Feb. 28.
The clinics planned for today, Feb. 25, and Friday, Feb. 26, have been postponed to Saturday, March 6, and Sunday, March 7, respectively. The times have also been changed for all second-shot clinics, and all clinics going forward will be held on weekends.
Although recipients may have been told to return at the same time of day as their first round, second-shot clinics are moving faster than anticipated. People with afternoon reservations have been asked to come in earlier.
OptumCare has requested the following schedule:
• Everyone scheduled for a second shot before noon should keep that appointment.
• Those scheduled between 3-4 p.m. should come between 9-10 a.m.
•Those scheduled between 4-5 p.m. should come between 10-11 a.m.
•Those scheduled between 5-6 p.m. should come between 11 a.m. and noon.
•Those scheduled after 6 p.m. should come in between 1-2:30 p.m.
Even with the postponement, the revised clinic schedules allow for shots to be administered within the 42-day window for receiving second doses; however, if you are an exception because of a previous delay, consult your physician.
You are required to present your paperwork from the first clinic or the appointment card to get your second shot. This is to prevent fraudulent attempts to obtain a first injection at a second shot clinic, as some have attempted to do. The quantities are carefully metered to accommodate the same number of people from each first-shot clinic.
People who have not yet received an inoculation can expect it in March as long as they have reregistered since Feb. 5.
All appointments are randomly determined by computer, so people’s dates of registration have no bearing on when their appointments will be scheduled.
The majority of LWers over 65 have been vaccinated, so the rest of the community should be accommodated at upcoming clinics. Once the over-65 group is inoculated and the Orange County opens the vaccine up to others, the GRF and OptumCare plan to vaccinate those under 65, and GRF employees, registered caregivers (unregistered caregivers will not be eligible; call Stock Transfer, (562) 431-6586, ext. 339, for registration information), and GRF’s custodial contractor employees. Watch for update on LW Live for new clinic dates.
LWers who have not registered should do so immediately at www.lwsb.com/vaccine. Those who do not have access to the Internet can be registered by anybody who does.
Once registered:
• Your name will be added to a database of those who want the vaccination. If the qualified resident is under 65, they will be entered into a separate database for when the vaccine is made available to them. If one person in a couple is under 65, it is preferable to register together for the later date, or to register separately if the older person needs to be vaccinated sooner.
• As clinics are scheduled, names will be taken from the list at random by the system and people will be contacted for appointments.
• People will be notified of appointment day and time by email if they registered by email.
• People who register for another person will need to contact the resident they are helping to inform them of them appointments and if necessary, transport them or arrange for the Access bus to bring them to Clubhouse 6.
• Once notified of an appointment, registrants must show up for the vaccination on the date and time specified. There are no choices of times or dates.
Also, people must be available to take the second dose three weeks after the first dose.
Couples will be scheduled together by completing the one form with both names.
If you are unable to complete registration by email and do not have a friend or relative to assist you, contact Cindy Tostado at (562) 431-6586, ext. 317, or Eloy Gomez, (562) 431-6586, ext. 356, for a copy of the form to register manually or for personal assistance.
Individuals have asked to be moved up the vaccination list. The GRF is required to offer the vaccine to any GRF member, co-occupant, or lessee over 65. To do this equitably, the computer randomly picks from all registrants. Standbys are chosen the same way and are called when registrants don’t show up for their appointments. So far 4,200 residents have been inoculated, and everyone who wants the vaccination should ultimately receive one.
Residents may choose to wait until vaccines are available to them in Leisure World or they can try to find a faster route at other Orange County outlets. To find out more about outside options, visit https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.
People who are now eligible to receive shots can register online through www.Othena.com.
Those who get vaccinated somewhere else and are registered in LW are asked to notify Recreation to take them off the waiting list by sending an email to cancelv@lwsb.com.
For more information, contact kathyt@lwsb.com.
Call for tax help now
The AARP Tax Program sponsored by the Golden Age Foundation (GAF) will open on March 8, with hours of operation on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings through April 14. Residents must have appointments. No walk-ins are allowed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
To schedule an appointment, call (562) 596-1987. Leave your name and telephone number, and a GAF volunteer will call you back. The GAF expects a high call volume and many call-backs. To maximize efficiency, people are asked to answer their telephones even though the calling number will not be familiar or may be blocked.
The program will work a little differently this year. After you schedule an appointment, you will be sent an intake/interview sheet and other documents to complete at home before your appointment. These interview sheets will not be available at the LW Library this year.
At your appointment, you will be interviewed using the intake/interview sheet. Volunteers and clients alike will be wearing masks and following distancing rules. Interviews will be conducted on the patio of Clubhouse 3 outside of the new Knowledge and Learning Center across from the LW Library.
The AARP volunteer will scan all of your documents to a secure server. After the documents are scanned, they will be returned to you, and you will schedule an appointment to return the following week to pick up your completed federal and state returns.
Your returns will be prepared and quality-reviewed by IRS-certified tax-aide counselors working at home using your scanned documents. Only the counselors assigned to your return will have access to your scanned documents. The electronic files will be restricted to view only. The tax-aide will be unable to copy, print, share or download the file. All returns will be prepared using Tax Slayer Pro Online software over a secure Internet connection.
When you return, the volunteer will review the completed return with you and secure your signature on the documents, allowing your return to be electronically filed. After the return is finalized, it will be e-filed that day and your scanned documents will be deleted within 48 hours after being accepted by IRS and the Franchise Tax Board.
Some returns do not meet program guidelines, and will not be able to be prepared. Volunteers can only prepare returns for full-year residents of California for 2020. If you are married, you must file a Married Filed Joint return. Returns with Rental Property or sale of anything other than your California residence or stocks, bonds and mutual funds cannot be handled.
According to new restrictions, Schedule C’s for Self-employed individuals cannot be prepared. If you have a broker statement for the sale of stock or other commodities, it cannot exceed 15 pages. Volunteers cannot prepare any Amended returns for 2020 or prior years. If you received a distribution from an IRA or retirement plan and plan to include the amount in income over the next three years or plan to repay the amount in three years, your return cannot be prepared.
CalFresh Benefits
CalFresh can help qualifying Leisure World residents receive healthy fruits and vegetables, among other groceries. Recipients receive a card similar to a debit card with money loaded every month to shop for more fruit, vegetables, protein and other healthy foods.
CalFresh is funded by the USDA and administered through the Community Action Partnership in Leisure World to help improve the health and nutrition of people with lower incomes.
Requirements to Apply:
• You must have at least one citizen or legal permanent resident with a Social Security number living in your household (including children).
• You may qualify for CalFresh even if you have a full- or part-time job.
• Gross monthly income must be less than the amounts listed: One-person household, $2,128; two-person household, $2,874.
• Seniors, those on SSI or those with a disability can apply and may be eligible for CalFresh.
• Documents needed to apply: photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income and resident card (if applicable, receipt of rent and receipt of one utility bill).
Upon application, income and many other factors are taken into account to determine eligibility. For more information or to apply online, call 1-800-281-9799 or go to https://www.mybenefitscalwin.org/.
Leisure World residents can get help and more information by calling Cindy Tostado, LCSW, GRF member resource and assistance liaison, 431-6586, ext. 317.
—from the California
Department of Social Services
Cyclists need to ride safer in LW
Each year in California, over 100 bicyclists are killed and over 10,000 are injured in collisions, according to the California DMV. Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, and it is important to pay attention to traffic signs and signals to reduce the risk of collisions while on the road
Safety Tips for Bicyclists
•Adjust your bicycle to fit. Stand over your bicycle. There should be 1-2 inches between you and the top tube (bar) if using a road bike and 3-4 inches if a mountain bicycle. The seat should be level front to back. The seat height should be adjusted to allow a slight bend at the knee when the leg is fully extended. The handlebar height should be at the same level with the seat.
•Check your equipment. Before riding, inflate tires properly and check that your brakes work. • See and be seen. Whether daytime, dawn, dusk, foul weather, or at night, you need to be seen by others. Wearing white has not been shown to make you more visible. Rather, always wear neon, fluorescent or other bright colors when riding day or night. Also wear something that reflects light, such as reflective tape or markings, or flashing lights. Remember, just because you can see a driver doesn’t mean the driver can see you.
• Maintain control of your bicycle. Always ride with at least one hand on the handlebars. Carry books or other items in a bicycle carrier or backpack.
• Watch for and avoid road hazards. Be on the lookout for potholes, broken glass, gravel, puddles, leaves and dogs, which can all cause crashes. If you are riding with friends and you are in the lead, yell out and point to the hazard to alert the riders behind you.
• Avoid riding at night. It is far more dangerous to ride at night than during the day because you are harder for others to see. If you have to ride at night, wear something that makes you more easily seen by others. Make sure you have reflectors on the front and rear of your bicycle (white lights on the front and red rear reflectors are required by law in California), in addition to reflectors on your tires, so others can see you.
• Protect yourself. Wear a properly fitted helmet. Many bicycle-related crashes resulting in injury or death are associated with the bicyclist’s behavior, including such things as not wearing a bicycle helmet, riding into a street without stopping, turning left or swerving into traffic that is coming from behind, running a stop sign, and riding the wrong way in traffic. To maximize your safety, always wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road.
Bike Safety and Rules of the Road
Bicycles in many states are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and the same responsibilities to follow the rules of the road as motorists, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
When riding, always:
• Go with the traffic flow. Ride on the right in the same direction as other vehicles. Go with the flow‚ not against it.
• Obey all traffic laws. A bicycle is a vehicle, and you’re a driver. When you ride in the street, obey all traffic signs, signals and lane markings.
• Yield to traffic when appropriate. Almost always, drivers on a smaller road must wait for traffic on a major or larger road. If there is no stop sign or traffic signal, and you are coming from a smaller roadway (out of a driveway, from a sidewalk, a bike path, etc.), you must slow down and look to see if the way is clear before proceeding. This also means yielding to pedestrians who have already entered a crosswalk.
• Be predictable. Ride in a straight line, not in and out of cars. Signal your moves to others.
• Stay alert at all times. Use your eyes and ears.
Watch out for potholes, cracks, wet leaves, storm grates or anything that could make you lose control of your bike.
You need your ears to hear traffic and avoid dangerous situations; don’t wear a headset while you ride.
• Look before turning. When turning left or right, always look behind you for a break in traffic, then signal before making the turn. Watch for left- or right-turning traffic.
• Watch for parked cars. Ride far enough out from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars (like doors opening or cars pulling out).
Sidewalk vs. Street Riding
The safest place for bicycle riding is on the street, where bicycles are expected to follow the same rules of the road as motorists and ride in the same direction. In LW, cyclists are allowed on sidewalks, but they must slow down or stop for pedestrians when necessary.
For anyone riding on a sidewalk:
• Watch for vehicles coming out of or turning into driveways.
• Stop at corners of sidewalks and streets to look for cars and to make sure the drivers see you before crossing.
• Enter a street at a corner and not between parked cars. Alert pedestrians that you are near by saying, “Excuse me” or “Passing on your left,” or use a bell or horn.
For more information on bicycle safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website at www.nhtsa.dot.gov.
Pedestrians, Be Aware
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), pedestrian fatalities are on the rise.
There was a more than 3 percent increase in the number of pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2018, totaling 6,283 deaths—the most deaths since 1990. While every pedestrian is at risk, older adults and children have a higher likelihood of being injured or killed while traveling by foot, wheelchair or stroller.
Sharing the road is crucial, as more Californians are choosing walking and bicycling as primary modes of transportation.
Everyone shares the responsibility to make sure California roads are safe for everyone.
For more information, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety.
Nesting boxes attract blue birds
by Esther Cummings
LW contributor
Have you noticed how bluebirds are flocking to Leisure World?
One reason for the increase is that last spring, three nesting boxes were hung in open, grassy areas in LW. The boxes were supplied by the Bluebird Program of El Dorado Audubon Society.
Volunteers monitor the boxes and report their findings to the Audubon Society.
These beautiful birds are insect eaters and find lots to eat in LW’s open green areas, on the ground and in the air. They stay here all year, as they do not migrate. Bluebirds can typically produce between two and four broods during the spring and summer. Males identify potential nest sites and try to attract prospective female mates to those nesting sites with special behaviors that include singing and flapping wings, and then placing some material in a nesting box or cavity.
They congregate in small flocks or family groups. In winter, they may add berries to their diet. For nesting, they require small cavities or bird boxes.
Watch for them on your next walk.
CSULB Tax Help
IRS-certified students will provide free tax services to low-income families, disabled people, the elderly, students, non-residents and limited-English-speaking individuals.
More than 50 English- and Spanish-speaking California State University, Long Beach, accounting students are providing free tax preparation assistance to qualified families.
The Internal Revenue Service-certified students will help those who make $57,000 or less, disabled people, the elderly, students, non-residents and individuals with limited English proficiency.
The free service is part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance clinic (VITA), which is an IRS-sponsored program.
Last year, student-volunteers filed state and federal tax returns that combined totaled more than $1 million in refunds.
Participants must have the following original documents:
• Government issued photo ID or driver’s license.
• Original Social Security card or documents of individual taxpayer identification number.
• All W-2’s and 1099’s (if any).
• Other income and expense information.
• Students or parents of students bring total tuition fees and expenses paid (form 1098-T).
• Parents bring total expenses paid for child’s daycare, if any.
• Daycare or dependent care provider’s address, phone number and SSN or EIN.
• Bank account and routing number (voided check) for direct deposit of refund.
Last year’s tax return is helpful, but not required.
To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-jointly tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms.
The regular schedule is Monday-Thursday, from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
To make an appointment, visit https://www.csulbbap.com/vita.
For more information, contact Briana Martin, VITA media coordinator, at Vita.csulb@gmail.com or (310) 909-3224.
City of Seal Beach helps with isolation
The City of Seal Beach is sponsoring SeniorCityzen, a resource to support and check in with older people who are socially isolated as a result of the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders.
Seal Beach seniors can connect with city staff (volunteers) by scheduling regular check-ins via telephone to chat and/or to receive referrals to community resources during this difficult time. A few of the staff volunteers speak Vietnamese and Mandarin.
Seniors who are interested in participating may email SeniorCityzen@sealbeachca.gov or call (562) 431-2527, ext. 1600. Seniors are asked to leave their names and phone numbers, and staff will return their email/call to set up a chat and/or answer any resource-related questions. SeniorCityzen is geared toward people 60 and above who are facing social isolation and are looking for someone to talk to, along with getting referrals to other senior-centric organizations.
For more information, contact Assistant City Manager Patrick Gallegos at pgallegos@sealbeachca.gov or (562) 431-2527, ext. 1308.
LW Library has tax booklets
The Leisure World Library has received California 540 Personal Income Tax Booklets. To pick up a booklet, knock on the front door of the library between 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday through Friday and ask for a booklet.
Supplies are limited; only two booklets per person will be distributed.
The library has not yet received any federal tax forms. Residents will be notified if, and when, they arrive.
Calling All Volunteers
For the last year, a team of compassionate, service-minded volunteers has been assisting LWSB residents who are unable to shop for themselves. Now, replacements are needed for those volunteers who have returned to work, are at capacity or have had to drop out for personal reasons.
If you have time to spare and would like to help your neighbors, contact Recreation at (562) 431-6586, ext. 398, or email kathyt@lwsb.com. Let us know where you live, when you are available and which stores you are able to shop at; include a phone number.
The Recreation Department will put volunteers in touch with people who have asked for help. Once a match is made, the individuals can work out the details.
No-contact service is recommended. Volunteers can take shopping lists over the phone, payment can be left at an agreed-upon spot, and groceries put at the door. People who choose to meet face-to-face will need to wear masks and keep their distance.
This is not a GRF-sanctioned activity.
CAP Food Distribution
Free food is available in Leisure World to eligible residents who are 60 years or older through Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAPOC), which has a monthly distribution site by Clubhouse 4.
The next food distribution will be Thursday, March 18.
Every third Thursday from 9-11 a.m., qualified people receive 40 pounds of food, including canned fruit, vegetables, meat, rice, juice, cereal and more.
Eligible seniors must live in Leisure World, be at least 60 years of age and meet income guidelines as follows: up to $1,354 a month for one person; $1,832 for a two-person household; and $2,311 for a three-person household. To sign up, bring a photo ID and proof of income (Social Security/SSI Statement, letter or bank statement or paycheck stub).
People who are unable to apply themselves or pick up the box of food may send a proxy to act on their behalf with appropriate ID.
People who need help arranging a proxy can call GRF Member Resource Liaison Cindy Tostado at 431-6586, ext. 317.
No cost care for Alzheimer’s patients with COVID-19
California LifeLine
Free food is available in Leisure World to eligible residents who are 60 years or older through Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAPOC), which has a monthly distribution site by Clubhouse 4.
The next food distribution will be Thursday, March 18.
Every third Thursday from 9-11 a.m., qualified people receive 40 pounds of food, including canned fruit, vegetables, meat, rice, juice, cereal and more.
Eligible seniors must live in Leisure World, be at least 60 years of age and meet income guidelines as follows: up to $1,354 a month for one person; $1,832 for a two-person household; and $2,311 for a three-person household. To sign up, bring a photo ID and proof of income (Social Security/SSI Statement, letter or bank statement or paycheck stub).
People who are unable to apply themselves or pick up the box of food may send a proxy to act on their behalf with appropriate ID.
People who need help arranging a proxy can call GRF Member Resource Liaison Cindy Tostado at 431-6586, ext. 317.
How to request a Service Maintenance Repair Order
If you have a family member with memory impairment who has recently tested positive for COVID-19, the Alzheimer’s Orange County COVID Memory Care Unit at the Fairview Developmental Center in Costa Mesa may have beds available.
It is for short-term stays, while the patient recovers from COVID-19 status.
This facility is designed to help hospitals free up beds and assist in arresting the spread of COVID-19 in congregate and home environments.
The AlzOC unit operates as a residential care facility for the elderly. All facility costs are covered by Orange County.
It is for COVID-19 patients with memory loss experiencing mild or no symptoms who do not require hospitalization.
The unit is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by LVN lead team members and caregivers with dementia training.
Patients can reside at the AlzOC unit for a minimum of 10 days, up to a maximum of 21 days, depending on symptoms.
For more information, call Patty Barnett Mouton, (714) 349-5517.
Golf Course Restrictions
Turtle Lake Golf Course was reopened Jan. 27. The following rules have been revised to address some issues that have developed since then and to inform all golfers of course etiquette and protocol. A copy may be obtained at the golf course in English and Korean:
GOLF COURSE RULES
• All rounds will be booked through the golf starter by online reservation the day before play at www.lwsb.com/reserve. Hours of play are from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Golfers may call on the day of play to see if a tee time is still available.
• Walk-ins will be accepted at the discretion of the starter, but may be turned away at any time.
• Phone-in and walk-in golfers will be limited to one round at all hours of play.
• Cutting or playing out of sequence is strictly prohibited. Violators will be removed from the course.
• All players must have their own golf bag and clubs, no sharing.
• No tournament play will be allowed at this time.
• Only rounds of one or up to four golfers will be permitted, and the names of all golfers, with Mutual and apartment numbers, must be submitted at the time of booking.
• Golfers must state three tee times, in order of preference, in case their first choice is not available.
• Golfers may not arrive sooner than 10 minutes before their tee times, and all tee times will be spread 10 minutes apart.
• Masks and 6-foot distancing will always be required.
• No gathering will be permitted before or after rounds have been played.
• No golfer may touch any other golfer’s equipment, including golf balls.
• The Starter Shack will be closed to all gatherings and will only be available for restroom use.
• The starter can only be addressed through the protective window area.
• The putting green will also be open with all required restrictions on a first come, first served basis (mask required).
• The golf starter will have the final say in all matters.
• The following are additional restrictions on the course:
»No score cards will be provided.
»No posting of scores.
»Ball washers have been removed from the course.
»Shoe cleaning station is off limits due to touch surfaces.
»Flag sticks are to remain in the hole with a suitable
method to fill the cups so that golf balls are readily accessible.
»No food or beverage services allowed.
»Patio chairs and benches have been removed.
Tax Tips
To speed refunds and help with their tax filing, the IRS urges people to follow these simple steps:
• File electronically and use direct deposit for fast refunds.
• Check IRS.gov for the latest tax information, including the latest on Economic Impact Payments. There is no need to call.
• Those who are eligible for stimulus payments should review the guidelines for the Recovery Rebate Credit. Most people received Economic Impact Payments automatically, and anyone who received the maximum amount does not need to include any information about their payments when they file. However, those who didn’t receive a payment or only received a partial payment may be eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit when they file their 2020 tax return.
Vote now for special March 9 election
A special election for an open seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors will be held March 9.
Voters will decide who will replace outgoing Michelle Steel on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, 2nd district. Steel resigned to be sworn into Congress.
Candidates are Kevin Muldoon, a small businessman and councilman; John Moorlach, a former state senator who used to represent the 2nd District on the Board of Supervisors; Michael Vo, mayor and business owner; Katrina Foley, mayor and business owner; and Janet Rappaport, tax attorney, according to the Candidate Filing Log at the OC Registrar’s Office.
Official voter drop boxes, including the one in Leisure World, are now open.
The drop box in LW is located near the Administration Building next to the U.S. mail box in front of the Amphitheater bus hub.
OC Registrar staff will pick up ballots Monday-Friday through Feb. 26.
From Saturday, Feb. 27, to Tuesday, March 9, ballots will be picked up daily, including weekends.
On Election Day, March 9, two county employees will be assigned at each ballot drop box starting in the late afternoon to assist with traffic flow, receive dropped-off ballots and lock the ballot mail slots at 8 p.m. or after the last voter.
Memorial Care Survey
MemorialCare Long Beach Shuttle Awareness Survey-— Did you know MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center has its very own shuttle exclusively for Leisure World residents? Please let us know your experience so we can improve. Complete a 10-minute online survey about the shuttle for a chance to win a $15 gift card to a local restaurant. Winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted by Thursday, March 18. Complete the survey at memorialcare.org/LBShuttleSurvey.
Perspectives pg 4
COVID Chronicles
by Joan Rose
LW contributor
Well, folks, we are going into our second year of being trapped at home and being asked to wear masks, and I, for one, am really sick of this pandemic.
Of course, I’ve been fortunate enough not to have actually gotten COVID-19, so I’ve been lucky there, and I guess all our protections have been life-saving, at least for some of us.
So, to keep myself from dying of boredom, I’ve cleaned out my closets and cleaned out the patio and baked myself into a dreaded weight gain. I try to keep busy with writing and painting, but still, when I see a travelogue on TV that shows wonderful trips to some exotic land, I start thinking about how glad I will be when the travel restrictions are lifted and we can travel about, and therefore return to a more normal, mask-less life.
I have traveled some and seen parts of the world such as Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Hawaii and some of the European countries, and of course, I was a lot younger when I took these trips.
Now I am elderly (which is a nice word for really old), and although I would still like to take trips, I have to think about the effects of travel on my health issues and my comfort zone.
Unfortunately, I have a condition that restricts the food I eat. When I was visiting Italy, the seafood, pizzas and pasta looked enticing, but I knew if I gave into temptation and tried this sumptuous food, I would regret it later. Mostly I lived on ham and cheese sandwiches and was happy to have them.
Cruises were another thing that gave me palpitations when I thought of eating aboard ship.
Although cruise food is supposed to be out of this world, to me, mealtime was just something to get through, and I prayed that I didn’t get sick later. The first thing I did whenever our tour bus stopped was to look for a bathroom.
I am also not as active as I once was. When I was younger, I remember going on walking tours in hilly old towns and exclaiming in wonder at the sight of the Mona Lisa in the Louvre or Michelangelo’s David in Florence.
Now my walking consists of taking out the trash, and sometimes (if it’s a nice day), I walk around the block. Maybe.
Of course, now in my twilight years, I have a lot more health issues that I have to contend with.
Let’s face it, the body has an expiration date, and I am getting closer to mine. I often read articles about how some 75- and 80-year-olds still travel the world, take cruises and go on biking trips. How I envy them. But personal comfort seems to be taking the place of the travel bug in my mind. Now when I think I’d like to travel, I think of all the things that are uncomfortable for me when I do so, and I put my credit card back in my wallet.
So now I sit in my rocker with the A/C on in the summer and my heater on in the winter, sip my tea, eat a cookie or two, and watch intrepid mountaineers on TV climbing Mt. Everest or sunburned men and women leaping into the air to go parasailing. I find that I am quite content just to watch them and not actually have to get out of my chair.
I think to myself, yes, I’d like to see the Pyramids in Egypt or climb the French Alps, but now I would probably just want to stay on the bus.
I think Dorothy was right-—there is no place like home.
Perspectives Policy
Submissions in each of the following categories may be published at the discretion of the managing editor.
Letters to the Editor: Maximum number of words: 250. Letters should be typed and delivered to LW Weekly by email (preferred), regular mail or hand-delivered.
Letters must be of general interest to the community and may contain opinions, suggestions, compliments and complaints without being scurrilous, libelous, defamatory, repetitive or otherwise inappropriate.
The names of individual employees, titles and/or departments will not be permitted in letters that could adversely impact any Foundation employee directly or indirectly.
Member Column: At a maximum 500 words, columns may present an argument, opinion or information about pending issues of concern to the community.
Priority goes to first-time or less frequent writers. Some names will be left out to protect privacy.
Contributor: Restaurant review, theater review or travel journal submissions welcome.
Setting It Straight
A caption in the Feb. 12 issue incorrectly identified John Anguiano, owner of Anguiano Landscaping Company, as Larry Dunn, who is the CEO of Global Specialty Services, the company that donated 24,000 disposable face masks to LW entities.
Medicare Scam Alerts
COVID-19 Vaccines
Medicare covers the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost to you, so if anyone asks you to share your Medicare number or pay for access to the vaccine, you can bet it’s a scam.
Here’s what to know:
• You can’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.
• You can’t pay to get early access to a vaccine.
• Don’t share your personal or financial information if someone calls, texts, or emails you promising access to the vaccine for a fee.
Protect Your Medicare Number
Con artists may try to get your Medicare number or personal information so they can steal your identity and commit Medicare fraud. Medicare fraud results in higher health care costs and taxes for everyone.
Protect yourself from Medicare fraud. Guard your Medicare card like it’s a credit card. Remember:
• Medicare will never contact you for your Medicare number or other personal information unless you’ve given them permission in advance.
• Medicare will never call you to sell you anything.
• You may get calls from people promising you things if you give them a Medicare number. Don’t do it.
• Medicare will never visit you at your home.
• Medicare can’t enroll you over the phone unless you called first.
• Only give personal information like your Medicare number to doctors, insurers acting on your behalf, or trusted people in the community who work with Medicare like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
Be familiar with how Medicare uses your personal information. If you join a Medicare plan, the plan will let you know how it will use your personal information.
Reporting Medicare Fraud
You can report suspected Medicare fraud by:
• Calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
• If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan, call the Medicare Drug Integrity Contractor (MEDIC) at 1-877-7SAFERX (1-877-772-3379).
• Have this information before you report fraud: Your name and Medicare number; the provider’s name and any identifying information you may have; the service or item you’re questioning and when it was supposedly given or delivered; the payment amount approved and paid by Medicare; and the date on your Medicare Summary Notice or claim.
To learn more about Medicare in general and how to prevent Medicare fraud, visit Medicare.gov.
—from Medicare.gov
Government
GRF Meetings
Golden Rain Foundation committee and board meetings are open to Leisure World residents. The following is a tentative schedule. Public health and safety measures will be in place to protect membership and staff, with limited in-person seating at Clubhouse 4. Physical distancing and wearing a face mask are required.
Mon., March 1 Recreation Committee
Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.
Wed., March 3 Physical Property Committee
Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.
Thurs., March 4 COVID-19 Ad Hoc Committee
Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.
Fri., March 5 GRF Board Executive Session
virtual 1 p.m.
Mon., March 8 Mutual Administration Committee
Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.
Wed., March 10 Security, Bus & Traffic Committee
Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.
Thurs., March 11 Communications/IT Committee
Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.
Connecting with the LW Weekly
The Leisure World Weekly office is closed to the public in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Editors can be reached by phone and email. See page 4 of any edition for editors’ addresses or send emails to rutho_news@lwsb.com.
People may drop articles and classified ads into the letter slot at the front of the News Building. The editorial deadline is Thursday for the following Thursday’s edition. All classified and display advertising will be accepted by telephone at (562) 430-0534; deadline is Monday at 2:30 p.m.
Carport Cleaning Schedule 2021
Since most of the holidays in 2021 fall on workdays for LWSB’s cleaning contractor, all carports will be cleaned this year on the actual holiday, with the exception of Thanksgiving (Nov. 25).
The following carports will be cleaned the morning of Nov. 30:
Mutual 11: Carports 130 -131
Mutual 15: Carports 7-8, 10 and 13
Mutual 16: Carport 9
The following carports will be cleaned that afternoon:
Mutual 15: Carports 3, 6, 11-12
LW Community Guide 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the production of the LW Community Guide in 2020. If there are any changes to your information for the White Pages from 2019, or if you weren’t included in 2019 but want to be in 2021, contact pattym@lwsb.com with your name and address and/or phone number.
Call for Candidates
Mutual and GRF election cycle begins
Since 1962, Leisure World, Seal Beach, has operated on a united community spirit. There is no one more interested in their home, Mutual and community than LWers and their fellow shareholders. Only they can truly understand the value of the LW life and lifestyle and have the motivation to see their Mutual, as well as the entire community, prosper.
Being part of a Mutual or GRF Board places shareholders in the middle of the decision-making process, with their voice and opinions heard as they represent their fellow shareholders for a collective benefit.
Pride in community, patience and motivation to help others are very important qualities for running for a seat on their Mutual or GRF Board. It is the strength of the vast and varied experience each director has, as well as the collective strength of the Board, that builds community and protects LW’s lifestyle and homes. The skills and knowledge a person has compiled through the years will be put to good use; everyone has the ability to do and be the change for the benefit of all.
The duly elected Mutual and GRF Boards set into operation the day-to-day business of each mutual corporation and Trust property and all of its amenities. Directors address the issues of most importance to their electorate—that is, their fellow shareholders. Board directors find solutions to existing problems, large and small. It’s not an easy job; it takes time, effort and a willingness to donate a portion of everyday life to the community.
As a community of more than 9,000 highly qualified shareholders, there is so much expertise to offer. New ideas and perspectives are always needed, which means volunteers are needed. Everyone should consider becoming a candidate for a position on their Mutual or GRF Board of Directors.
The schedule below indicates the Mutuals’ and GRF elections schedule. Deadlines to apply for candidacy vary. Anyone interested in or who has questions relating to becoming a candidate for his or her Mutual or GRF Board of Directors should contact the Stock Transfer Office at (562) 431-6586, ext. 346.
Mutual Meetings
Mutual residents are invited to attend the open meetings of their mutual boards (schedule subject to change).
Thurs., Feb. 25 Mutual 1
virtual 9 a.m.
Fri., Feb. 26 Mutual 6
virtual 9:30 a.m.
Tues., March 2 Mutual 16
virtual 9:30 a.m.
Tues., March 2 Mutual 17
virtual 1:30 p.m.
Thurs., March 4 Presidents’ Council
virtual 9 a.m.
Mon., March 8 Mutual 9
virtual 9 a.m.
Wed., March 10 Mutual 4 (open forum, 9:15 a.m.)
virtual 9:30 a.m.
Thurs., March 11 Mutual 12
virtual 9 a.m.
Fri., March 12 Mutual 3
virtual 9 a.m.
Mon., March 15 Mutual 15
virtual 1 p.m.
Tues., March 16 Mutual 14
virtual 1 p.m.
Wed., March 17 Mutual 5
virtual 9 a.m.
Wed., March 17 Mutual 7
virtual 1 p.m.
Thurs., March 18 Mutual 2
virtual 9 a.m.
Thurs., March 18 Mutual 11
virtual 1:30 p.m.
Street Sweeping
GRF trust streets are swept on the fourth Thursday of the month. Parked vehicles must be removed from trust streets before midnight the night before. Contact Mutual directors to find out when your carports are scheduled for sweeping.
Recap of GRF Activity, Feb. 23
Approved Consent Agenda: MOVED and duly approved the Committee/Board meeting minutes for the month of January: the minutes of the Jan. 4 Recreation Committee Board meeting; the minutes of the Jan. 8 Executive Committee Board meeting; the minutes of the Jan. 15 Finance Committee Board meeting; the minutes of the GRF Board of Directors meeting, dated Jan. 26; the minutes of the Special GRF Board of Directors meeting, dated Jan. 29; the GRF Board Report, dated Feb. 23; acceptance of the Financial Statements, January, for Audit, the Reserve Funds Investment Purchase, and the Capital funds Investment Purchase.
General—Assignment and Assumption of Lease: MOVED to approve the Assignment and Assumption of agreement by Monarch Management Services and authorize the President to sign the agreement.
Consent Calendar: AB 3182: MOVED to approve the consent agenda of proposed AB 3182 subcommittee amendments including: amend 30-1022-3, Petitions; TENTATIVE VOTE: amend 70-1406-1, Limitations on Use of Trust Property—Rules (pending a 28-day notification to the members and a final decision by the GRF Board of Directors on April 5); amend 70-1429.02-1, Golf Course Rules, 70-1468-1; amend Swimming Pool Rules; and amend 70-2504-1, The Library—Rules.
The Board concurred to refer 70-1400-1, Use of GRF (Trust) Facilities, to the AB 3182 subcommittee for review.
Executive Committee—401(k) Benefits Renewal: MOVED to approve to terminate the 401(k) plan investment advisory services with the current advisor, LPL Financial, as soon as the existing agreement allows for termination and that advisory services be approved for Burnham Gibson Wealth Advisors to act as advisors as soon as practical.
Executive Committee—Employee Health Benefits Renewal: MOVED to approve renewal of the following GRF employee benefits plans for the plan year beginning April 1 and ending March 31, 2022: Anthem Blue Cross Medical new Low and existing High HMO Plans (Option A); Guardian Dental HMO and PPO Plans; VSP Vision Plan; Basic Life and AD&D Insurance Plan; Long Term Disability Plan; Accident and Critical Illness Plan; Hospital Indemnity; Employee Assistance Plan; Voluntary Life Plan; VPI/Nationwide Voluntary Pet Insurance Plan; United Pet Care Pet Discount Program; reimbursement of up to $750 hospitalization cost annually per employee; and Flexible Spending Account Plan.
Executive Committee—Amend 30-1220-1, Resident Specialist: MOVED to amend 30-1220-1, Sub-committee Member/Owner (M/O) Specialist, stating that Member/Owners appointed to a GRF standing or subcommittee must reside in the community and that Renter/Lessees, Co-occupants and Qualified Permanent Residents may not serve as a Specialist, as presented.
Executive Committee—TENTATIVE VOTE: Amend 30-5093-2, Member/Owner (M/O) Renter/Lessee (R/L) Rules of Conduct, Non-compliance with Rules of Conduct—Fines and Penalties: MOVED to amend 30-5093-2, Member/Owner (M/O) Renter/Lessee (R/L) Rules of Conduct, Non-compliance with Rules of Conduct—Fines and Penalties, clarifying document language, the review process of egregious offences, and specifying that GRF-contracted service providers will be protected while on Trust Property or while working in Mutuals, as presented.
Finance Committee—Capital Funding Request—Purchasing Office Improvements: MOVED to approve the purchase of workstations outlined, per the plans from Talimar Systems, for office improvement of the Purchasing Department using Capital Funds, not to exceed $3,000.
Physical Property Committee—Capital Funding Request—Turtle Lake, Electric Power: MOVED to award a contract to Schlick Services to install a freestanding 100-amp pedestal at the Golf Course to serve the fountains at Turtle Lake, for a cost of $7,341, adding $2,000 for contingencies, for a total cost not to exceed $9,341, Capital funding, and authorize the President sign the contract.
Physical Property Committee—Reserve Funding Request—RV Lot, Entrance: MOVED to award a contract to MJ Jurado for the replacement and modification of the existing entrance at the RV Lot, adding Reserve Funds in the amount of $67,940 to the previously approved $23,600, totaling $91,540 including contingencies, Reserve funding, and authorize the President sign the contract.
Physical Property Committee—Reserve Funding Request—Service Maintenance, Gate: MOVED to award a contract to MJ Jurado for the replacement of the existing entrance gate with an automatic opener, at the Service Mantenance Yard, for a cost not to exceed $20,000, Reserve Funding, and authorize the President sign the contract.
Recreation Committee—Acceptance of GAF Donation, Clubhouse 4, Ice Machine: MOVED to accept the generous donation from the Golden Age Foundation, in the amount of $6,500, for the purchase and installation of an ice machine and dispenser in Clubhouse 4.
Recreation Committee—Reserve and Capital Funding Requests—Clubhouse 2, Pool and Game, Renovation and Enhancement: MOVED to approve the project identified as Clubhouse 2, Pool and Game Room Renovation and Enhancements, for amounts not to exceed: Reserves, $189,688, representing scheduled, accelerated and non-scheduled replacement and/or extending the useful life of assets and/or components of assets; and Capital, $74,883, for the purchase of new assets.
MOVED to authorize the Executive Director to initiate the purchases and/or contracts required to complete the scope of work to the approved budget.
Recreation Committee—Capital Funding Request—Clubhouses 3 and 6, Outdoor Patio Areas: MOVED to approve the retention of professional design services, by Mission Landscape Architecture, at an expense not to exceed $25,0000, Capital Funding. The Executive Director is authorized to indicate the proposed scope for Trust Property commonly identified as: Trust Property known as Clubhouse 3, south entrance patio; Clubhouse 3, Veterans Plaza area; Clubhouse 6, east side patio; and Clubhouse 6, parking lot, marquee. All work products are to be in conjunction with applicable committee oversite, with final concepts to be submitted to the Board for review and consideration.
Recreation Committee—Approve Temporary Use of Trust Property, Tax Preparation: MOVED to approve the exclusive use of Trust Property identified as Clubhouse 3, Knowledge and Learning Center, from March 1 to May 31 for the sole purpose of tax-preparation services provided through the Golden Age Foundation, under the terms and conditions of Exhibits A and B and authorize the President to sign the temporary-use lease agreement.
Consent Agenda: Security, Bus & Traffic Committee: MOVED to TENTATIVE VOTE: adopt 80-5580-1, Entry Passes—Rules; adopt 80-5580-3, Entry Passes—Procedures;\. TENTATIVE VOTE: adopt 80-1930-1, Traffic—Rules; adopt 80-1930-3, Traffic—Procedures. TENTATIVE VOTE: adopt 80-1937-1, Parking—Rules. TENTATIVE VOTE: adopt 80-1937-2, Parking—Fines. All are pending a 28-day notification to the members and a final decision by the GRF Board of Directors on April 5.
The Board concurred to refer 40-5580-2, Entry Passes—Fees, to the Finance Committee for a work-study meeting.
MOVED to rescind the following governing documents: 80-5536-1, Guest Passes; 80-1920-1, Traffic Rules and Regulations; 80-1925-1, Traffic Rules and Regulations—Enforcement on Trust Property; 80-1927-1, Parking Rules for Trust Property; and 80-1928-1, Golf Cart and Low Speed Vehicle Rules, pending a 28-day notification to the members and a final decision by the GRF Board of Directors on April 5.
Arts & Leisure
Aquarium of the Pacific
Annual African-American fest goes virtual
The Aquarium of the Pacific’s 19th annual African-American Festival will be a livestreamed event on Saturday, Feb. 27, starting at 10 a.m. Baba the Storyteller will not only present tales in the West African tradition, but he will also emcee the fest, which includes a tour of the historical display “Forgotten Images: A Celebration of African and African-American History” as well as an animal presentation by Aquarium staff and the LA LA Mardi Gras Second Liners, who will be parading in traditional New Orleans style.
Providing rhythmic entertainment will be PISE (Positive Images of Self Expression) and their tap and modern dancing; Dembrebrah’s West African drumming and dancing; Long Beach’s Homeland Crew with breakdancing and popping; and the soul-pop fusion of Per Se.
At 3:15 p.m., Felton Williams, Ph.D., will accept this year’s Heritage Award. The longtime educator and former Long Beach Unified School District board member is being recognized for his outstanding service to African-American communities.
Following the presentation, the Aquarium will announce its inaugural African American Scholar recipients. The 10 students were required to demonstrate a commitment to studies related to careers in the aquarium field, including ocean education, animal husbandry, water quality, building maintenance or facilities, microbiology, and business management. Each scholar will receive $10,000 and will be invited to the Aquarium to participate in presentations, meetings and other activities this year.
To view the free festival, go to pacific.to/africanamericanfestival.
Master Gardener Zoom Workshops
The GRF Mini Farm is happy to announce that Master Gardeners will be giving workshops on Zoom over the coming months. Monthly workshops will take place Thursdays at 10 a.m. The dates and topics are:
March 11: Tending My Soil
April 8: Gopher Management
May 13: Terrific Tomatoes
June 10: Insect Pest Management
Zoom links can be found on the mini farm website at www.lwsb.com/mini-farm/ on the morning of each workshop. All are welcome to attend, but current and prospective mini farmers are encouraged to join if able. More workshops will be offered later in the year, hopefully in person.
Where-We-Live Club
Learn about the concept of feng shui. “Let’s Put Our Affairs in Order and Organize!” will concentrate on the art of placement and how it may change lives. New and previous members, as well as any curious shareholders, are welcome to join. Email wherewelive@yahoo.com to be placed on a mailing list for future workshops, as well as updates to the club’s calendar of activities, Zoom meetings and HomeWorks.
Richard and Susan Yokomi enjoy “Tennessee Waltz” as part of the Joyful Line Dance Class. Under Jojo Weingart’s leadership, members take the lead to display their favorite dances. Classes are held on at Veterans Plaza from 2-3:30 p.m. on all Wednesdays except the fourth, when class is from 3-4:30 p.m. All participants are required to wear face masks and follow social distancing protocols while in the class. Exercise shoes must be worn for safety; no flip-flops or sandals allowed. There are no membership dues, and all shareholders are welcome to join. For more information, call Anna Derby at (562) 301-5339.
Grab ’n’ Go Meals
Feb. 25-March 3
Clubhouse 6 Parking Lot
• Thursday: Domino’s Pizza—call ahead for special orders, wings and salads offered, 3:30-7 p.m., cash/cards, (562) 493-2212.
• Friday: Katella Deli—deli favorites, appetizers, salads, hot entrées; specials of the day available onsite, 3:30-5:30 p.m., cash/cards. Call ahead at (562) 594-8611, or order online at www.katellabakery.com.
• Saturday: Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que—barbecue, salads, sandwiches, 3-5 p.m., no preorders, cash/cards.
• Sunday: The Skewer—Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, shawarma, falafel, fries, hummus, and salads, 2-4 p.m. View all options at skewerstruck.com/menu.
• Monday: Kabobaholic Food Truck—chicken or meat kabobs, gyros, falafel, loaded fries, 3:30-5:30 p.m., cash/cards. To preorder, go to www.kabobaholicft.com or text (949) 400-4696; mention LWSB when ordering.
• Tuesday: Taco Tuesday—Mexican favorites, plus hot dogs, burgers and fries, 5-7 p.m., cash/cards, no preorders.
• Wednesday: Salt ’n’ Pepper—hoagies, hot dogs, melts and loaded fries, 3:30-5:30 p.m., cash/cards. For a full menu, go to www.saltandpeppertruck.com/menu. Call in orders at (949) 0719.
•••
All Grab ’n’ Go events take place rain or shine. Masks and 6-foot social distancing required and strictly enforced. For more information or to offer feedback, call (562) 431-6586, ext. 398.
On-call bus service is available weekdays from 4:30 p.m., when regular service ends; weekends are on-call at any time. Call (562) 431-6586, ext. 379.
Watch for LW Live! alerts for daily menus. Vendors are subject to change. Sign up for LW Live at https://www.lwsb.com/lw-live-sign-up/.
Library announces new
Literature Art Contest
The Leisure World Library is sponsoring a Literature Art Contest, for which LWers are asked to re-create a scene or pay tribute to a suggested famous work of fiction.
Any artistic medium—paint, ceramic, sculpture, wood, paper, needlecraft or other handcraft—will be accepted, but artists should be mindful that submitted works will be on display outside for several hours.
Participants will need to choose from among the following classics, all of which have been adapted into movies:
• “The Great Gatsby”
• “The Three Musketeers”
• “Frankenstein”
• “The Old Man and the Sea”
• “Gone with the Wind”
• “The Hobbit”
• “Huckleberry Finn”
• “Call of the Wild”
• “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• “Little Women”
• “Pride and Prejudice”
• “The Wizard of Oz”
• “Treasure Island”
• “Alice in Wonderland”
• “The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe”
Completed entries, accompanied by a copy of the entry form, should be dropped off at the library April 12-15, between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Entry forms will be printed in the LW Weekly (see below), as well as available at the library.
Art works will be displayed at Veterans Plaza on April 16 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., with winners announced promptly at 2 p.m. First place receives $200, second place receives $100, and third place receives $50 in Visa gift cards.
GRF Library Literature Art Contest
Entry Form
Bring entry and this form to LW Library April 12-15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Entries will be displayed April 16. No early drop-offs accepted.
Name ______________________________________________
Mutual and Apartment ________________________________
Email Address ______________________________________
Phone number ______________________________________
Book ______________________________________________
Technology Classes by Miryam
Miryam Fernandez’s technology classes are held every other Tuesday at 2 p.m. Topics change each session, all of which are closed captioned.
For an invitation, email Fernandez at mzzmimm@gmail.com. If you need help setting up a microphone and/or video or have other connectivity issues, call Bonnie Cooper at (562) 822-6358 before class begins.
Registration is required at least six hours prior to allow for technological issues.
March 2: Beginning Zoom and Closed Captions
March 16: Basic Privacy and Security on the Internet
March 30: Facebook
April 13: iPhone
April 27: Beginner’s Guide to Gmail
•••
Important Reminders
• It’s been reported that fraudsters are using telemarketing calls, emails, text messages, social-media platforms and even door-to-door visits to collect personal information and finances from individuals while promising to provide a vaccination. Please be careful!
• Apple, Microsoft, IRS, Social Security, etc., will never contact you by phone, text or email. If there’s a problem with your account, they will shut you down until you contact them.
Tech Talk
Bob Cohen gives a free, one-hour, live tech talk the first Monday of each month at 10 a.m. Topics include iPhones, apps, computers, websites and Internet marketing. A question-and-answer period is held during each session, and all you need to know in advance is how to join using Zoom.
Registration information is sent out in the Bobology newsletter the week before for the upcoming Tech Talk. To register for the newsletter, sign up at https://bit.ly/bobologynewsletter or contact bob@bobology.com.
Golf League Results
There was no Men’s League golf on President’s Day, Feb 15, but Monday golf will resume on March 1 at Riverview Golf Club in Santa Ana. The next Friday golf is at Willowick in Santa Ann on Feb. 26, then March 5 at David L. Baker in Fountain Valley.
Both the Monday and Friday Leagues continue see a large group of players participating, indicating the continuing need LW seniors have for exercise and fellowship. The courses are always quite full, with everyone wearing masks around the clubhouse and snack bar, plus observing social distancing and not contacting one another’s equipment.
It was as such on Feb. 19, when a cool morning greeted nine men at Riverview. After a few holes, the sun came out, and it was a lovely day to be with friends and playing golf. The 5,800-yard course is a par 70, with tree lined fairways, elevated greens, and many water hazards since the Santa Ana River runs down the middle.
All scores are net (actual score minus handicap). A Flight handicaps range from 0-20; B flight is higher than 20.
A Flight Winners: First place: Jim Goltra, par 70; second: tie between Dave LaCascia and Larry Hillhouse, 4 over 74; third: Sam Choi; fourth: Fujio Norihiro; sixth: Bill McKusky. Choi had fewest putts and a birdie. Goltra also had a birdie. LaCascia was closest to the pin on the 160-yard, par-3 second hole, and Hillhouse was closest on the 90-yard (all over water), par-3 ninth hole.
B Flight Winners: First place: Bob Munn, 5 under 65 and fewest putts; second: Lowell Goltra, 1 over 71; third: Marv Ballard, 4 over 74.
Both the Monday and Friday Golf Leagues play at four local courses, all within 15 minutes of Leisure World, starting between 7-7:30 a.m., except holidays. The courses are David L. Baker in Fountain Valley, Meadowlark in Huntington Beach, Riverview in Santa Ana, and Willowick in Garden Grove. In general, masks are required at the pro shops, but optional while waiting to tee off. No masks are required on the putting greens, driving range or the course itself. Golfers are respectful of one other’s personal space, social distancing is observed, and there is no contact with others’ equipment. Golf carts are single person only unless riders are from the same household.
LW Men’s Club membership is not required, and friends, ladies, spouses and family are all welcome to play and/or join. There is a prize pool for each round that players are not obligated to enter. Prizes are awarded for low gross in each flight, birdies, closest to the pin on two par-3s, and lowest number of putts in each flight. Holes-in-One and eagles, although infrequent, are generously rewarded. If interested, contact McKusky (562) 430-8618 or LaCascia (801) 674-5975.
Handicaps can be determined using local course handicap numbers and adjusted for the longer, more difficult courses outside Leisure World. Contact LaCascia for more information.
—Dave LaCascia
Balance & Stability Class
A Landmark Balance & Stability class is offered on Saturdays, 11 a.m., on Zoom. Instructor Adrianne Rosenfeld teaches the free, 40-minute class that focuses on balance, shifting weight and cognizant activities. It broadcasts at around 4:20-4:40 p.m. every day on the Spectrum Cable Channel 1390 and is available on youtube.com.
Join the Zoom meeting by visiting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84982522530; the meeting ID is 849 8252 2530, and the password is practice.
Rosenfeld is certified in Zumba, Zumba Gold, Silver Sneakers, and Balance & Stability. She also has certification from the Fitness Aging Institute and an ACE Group exercise certificate. For more information, email arosenfeld1@verizon.net.
Mahalo/thanks to Mutual 11’s Betty Vanderwal and Lori Chamberlin for the invitation to entertain with Hui O Hula music and dance. Before the Hawaiian dance program, neighbor Phil Mandeville gave blessings/pule: “May there always be tradewinds behind you, rainbows above you, and aloha all around you.” Just like his words, Feb. 12 was beautiful, with a soft, gentle breeze after the morning showers. Gracious hostesses Vanderwal and Chamberlin lifted many spirits with whimsical decorations, colorful leis, rainbow masks, and bountiful pizza, snacks and beverages during the show. One shareholder said it was like a “get-out-of-jail day.” This festive event was captured by video producer Joe Osuna and may be viewed on his YouTube channel, joeseniorvideo, at https://youtu.be/PEPj2cb28ss; it will also be broadcast on SBTV3 in March. During these unusual times, Hui O Hula appreciates the opportunity to gather and practice at Veterans Plaza; all are welcome to join. Dancers and the band are also glad to bring aloha—free of charge—to any part of LW provided it is outdoors with ample space. Call (562) 431-2242 for class information or to schedule a performance.
Leisure World Golf League
Rules of play being considered for senior golf leagues in U.S.
In an attempt to assist seniors in keeping the pace of the game steady and uninterrupted, several new local rule modifications are being considered for use by various senior golf organizations. These suggestions can be implemented as part of the local course rules or incorporated into tournament play or both. Potential changes to local rules as listed below, as well as any new suggestions/modifications, should be reviewed and voted upon by rules committees. Some of these are already incorporated into Leisure World’s league play.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) Rules of Golf will always apply, with certain exceptions.
Foremost when playing is to obey local club rules, which are usually specified on the scorecard. Examples include:
• Pay attention to signs directing or prohibiting carts, or entering grounds under repair;
• Fix your ball marks;
• Replace or fill divots, depending on type of grass;
• Honor all course dress rules.
As a reminder, there is no longer a penalty for double hitting a ball during a stroke, and the flag no longer needs to be attended when putting on the green.
Suggested Rules
1) One Club Length Rule: A player may move his ball one club length anywhere, except in a hazard or on the green, but never closer to the hole. Moving the ball does not allow a player to move his ball from one situation to another such as from rough to fairway. This rule does not guarantee a clear shot. Optionally, the ball may be moved one club length into the fairway no closer to the hole with a one-stroke penalty.
2) Out of Bounds, Club Limit, Ball Type, Putter Anchoring, Lost Ball and Unplayable Lie:
• A ball out of bounds may be played from one club length toward the fairway nearest to the point where the ball first crossed the out-of-bounds line (NOT from where the ball is found). One-shot penalty.
• No 14-club limit.
• May change ball at any time.
• Anchoring of putters is allowed while making a putting stroke.
• A lost ball, ball in the woods or in an unplayable area may be played from one club length into the fairway nearest to the point where the ball is found or the best guess location in the case of a lost ball. One-shot penalty.
3) Lift, Clean and Place: Since the ball may be lifted (see No. 1), the golfer may clean the ball prior to placing it back in play. You may now legally drop from the knee rather than the shoulder.
4) Ball in Penalty Area: This includes water hazards and areas staked or lined as a Penalty Area. If the ball is in an unmarked area that the majority of the foursome determines should be marked as a Penalty Area, it should be played as a Penalty Area. The ball may be played as it lies. Or you can take a one-stroke penalty and a drop out of the Penalty Area (no closer to the hole). Remember, you are allowed to remove loose impediments and ground your club.
5) Sand Traps: You are allowed to improve your lie in a sand trap by moving one club length inside the trap, no closer to the hole, and by raking the sand and placing your ball. Or you can take a one-stroke penalty and a drop out of the trap (no closer to the hole). When dropping from a trap, drop outside the trap, keeping the trap between you and the hole. You are allowed to remove loose impediments and ground your club in the sand trap.
6) In Tree Well or Behind Tree or on Roots: Ball may be moved as long as it is not moved more than two club lengths and/or closer to the hole. You can’t move the ball from rough to fairway or from fairway to green.
7) Gimmie Putt Rule: Concede a short putt you know the golfer should make. If necessary, use the length of a putter or the length of the gripped or un-gripped area on the putter as the standard for “gimmie or not.” Decide ahead of time.
8) Maximum score: Triple or quadruple bogey is the maximum score. If this is inevitable pick-up, take the triple with two putts, but record the actual number of putts taken if the final putt actually results in a multiple bogey.
9) Use or Forward or Senior Tees: The league/club/tournament may, at its discretion, allow all players to use the Forward/Senior Tees.
10) Hazards: If, from any regular tee location, a particular golfer’s drive cannot or is known not to be able to clear the obstacle (penalty area, water, sand trap, brush, or other hazard in front of him or her), then the golfer may optionally tee off or drop on the other side of the obstacle, taking a one-stroke penalty. A similar rule may be adopted if the same circumstances occur on the fairway.
—Dave LaCascia
The Leisure World Coin Club held its first meeting of the year on Feb. 17. All members were pleased to reunite with their fellow numismatists for the first time in almost a year. They bragged about the newest additions to their collections and were also able to trade or update coins. Meeting outdoors was reportedly quite a change from Clubhouse 3, but the club still managed to get a lot of business conducted. The next meeting is scheduled for March 10 at 1:30 p.m. on the greenbelt adjacent to Unit 10-L in Mutual 5. All residents and prospective collectors are invited; bring your own chair, refreshments and mask. Everyone is welcome to present a special coin or collection and its story.
LW Library Curbside Pick-up
Though the building is closed to residents because of COVID-19 precautions, LW Library staff continues its curbside pick-up program.
You may request materials from the library collection via email at LWLibrary@lwsb.com or by calling (562) 598-2431, Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Emails should include your name, library card number, phone number, and what kinds of materials you like to read and/or watch.
You will receive a call when your material is ready for curbside pick-up. Upon notification, you can come to the library from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday, and retrieve the materials either by coming to the main entrance door or by parking in a curbside spot and calling the library to let staff know you have arrived. Remain in your vehicle, and a staff member will place a paper bag filled with your items in your trunk for you.
Patrons can return materials to the library book drop at any time.
If you need a LW library card, you can call the library for help.
—Vanessa Morris, Library Operations Supervisor
Zumba and Dance Fitness Clubs
Get off the couch! There are two low-impact dance clubs you can join, both of which meet at Veterans Park. Zumba Club meets on Mondays at 4 p.m., and the Dance Fitness Club comes together on Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. Both are free during the pandemic.
For more information, contact Jim Blanchard at (714) 487-2446.
Joe Osuna of Mutual 15 shared with us this doctored image of himself sitting with Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders in front of LW’s Administration Building (above), while Charla Song of Mutual 6 passed along the photo of Joe and Bernie in front of Clubhouse 6 (left). Send your favorite memes, Bernie-related or otherwise, plus a brief description, to pattym@lwsb.com.
Video Producers Zoom Meetings
The Video Producers Club offers free, weekly Zoom classes, as well as a social opportunity.
Classes are as follows:
• Monday, 2 p.m.: Zoom class for iPad and Mac users hosted by Fred Carpenter. For an invite to his class, email sail1942@gmail.com.
• Wednesday, 10 a.m.: Beginners’ Zoom class for Windows and Android users with Charlie Guggino. For an invite to this class, email joosuna29a@gmail.com.
• Thursday, 10 a.m.: Beginners’ and Intermediate Zoom class for Windows and Android users and for beginning Video Producers with host Joseph Valentinetti. For an invite to his class, email 0501042@gmail.com.
• Thursday, 5:30 p.m.: The one-hour Zoom Party Social, hosted by Valentinetti, is open to all residents. For an invite, email 0501042@gmail.com.
• Monday, March 1, 10 a.m.: Bob Cohen hosts a monthly Tech Talk, focusing on a variety of topics. Email bob@bobology.com for a Zoom invitation. Subscribe to his free newsletter, which features links to videos, articles and free live meetings, at http://bit.ly/bobologynewsletter.
—Joe Osuna
Leisure Bikers
Sunday Leisure Bikers ride to Long Beach Municipal Golf Course and have breakfast, then continue to El Dorado park for a 2-mile hike at the Nature Center. There are also rides on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
All are invited to join; helmets, safe shoes and masks are a must. Call Mary Romero at (562) 810-4266 for more information.
Book Reviews
LW residents are invited to submit reviews of their favorite books for publication in the LW Weekly. Include your name and mutual and telephone numbers. The reviews are subject to editing and will run as space allows. Email submissions to pattym@lwsb.com.
This feature showcases original poems by members of the Creative Writers Club of Leisure World and other GRF members.
Make- up
Unexpected invitation at the shopping mall, Macy’s.
Free make-up for me.
No doubt that I need one
The vanity, vanity neglected so long.
I’m in a high chair
Tall skinny young lady with full make-up
Beautiful as she can be
Her hands are busy, wash my face with cleanser
Serum then cream, soft brushes for foundation
Mascara? No, I said, but yes to eyeliner to make me less droopy
Blush on my cheek
Lipstick? Yes, something red
Finally time to see myself in the mirror
All looks like me, but my lips. So bright and red.
No, no, no, it is not me, I cried
Yes, yes, yes, everyone around me said
So here I go; paid a large sum of money to buy a few products with an uneasy heart
The saleslady assured me that I’ll be happy to see my pretty face with all these products.
I felt happy already to walk out the place with a little bag, just for me.
My vanity!
—Chung Hur, Mutual 17
Casting Call
Director Joe Osuna seeks eight Leisure World actors to perform in four skits. No experience is necessary, but participants must be able to use the Zoom video-conferencing software.
For each skit, two actors will face each other in a Zoom meeting using a virtual green background (to be provided by the director). The actors will compliment each other on what they are wearing or politely talk about their woes or how their day went.
In post-production, the Zoom grid lines separating the actors will be removed, so that each skit’s two actors will appear as if they’re in the same room at the same time. Special effects will be used to insert thought bubbles expressing the characters’ real thoughts, which do not reflect what the actors are saying.
The video is recorded with two actors at a time. When the first skit is done, the Zoom meeting for the next skit (featuring two different actors) will start, and so on.
If you and a friend want to be paired together, let Osuna know. For more details or to sign up, contact Osuna at joosuna29a@gmail.com, or text him at (562) 822-8216.
CDC offers advice on what to expect after getting a COVID-19 vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting the novel coronavirus. But after getting the shots, you may experience some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.
Common Side Effects
On the arm where you got the shot, you may experience:
• Pain
• Swelling
Throughout the rest of your body, you may have:
• Fever
• Chills
• Tiredness
• Headache
Helpful Tips
If you have pain or discomfort, talk to your doctor about taking over-the-counter medicine, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, antihistamines or acetaminophen, for any pain and discomfort you may experience after getting vaccinated. You can take these medications to relieve post-vaccination side effects if you have no other medical reasons preventing you from taking them normally. It is not recommended you take these medicines before vaccination in an attempt to prevent side effects because it’s not known how they may impact the effectiveness of the vaccine.
To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot:
• Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area.
• Use or exercise your arm.
To reduce discomfort from fever:
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Dress lightly.
When to Call the Doctor
In most cases, discomfort from fever or pain is normal. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider:
• If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours.
• If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days.
If you think you might be having a severe allergic reaction, seek immediate medical care by calling 911.
Remember: Side effects can affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.
With most COVID-19 vaccines, you will need two doses in order for them to work. Get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first shot, unless a vaccination provider or your doctor advises against it.
It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines that require two shots may not protect you until a week or two after your second shot. It’s important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions. Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, stay at least 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds, avoid poorly ventilated spaces, and wash your hands often.?
—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Exercise can help you keep your balance
By CJ Blomquist
OptumCare
If seems as if it’s harder to get out of a chair, and you’re not as steady on your feet as you were before, you’re not imagining it. Age can affect how well we balance. That may not sound so bad, but if you’ve ever had a fall, you know it can be scary to lose your balance.
The good news is you can do something about it.
There are simple exercises you can do at home, such as the ones below. Be sure to check with your doctor whether these moves are safe for you.
Heel-to-toe walk: Start with one foot in front of the other. The heel of one foot should almost touch the toes of the other. Take a step forward, again putting one heel right in front of the other foot’s toes. Continue for 20 steps. If you feel a little unsteady, try this near a wall for support.
Standing marches: Holding onto the back of a chair, stand with your legs hip-width apart. Slowly raise one leg, then hold it. Lower your leg and repeat with the other. Do this 20 times for each leg.
Head rotations: Stand with your legs hip-width apart. Slowly turn your head to look over one shoulder. Raise your head up and down. Slowly turn your head and repeat this over the other shoulder. Do this for 30 seconds. Use the back of a chair for support. If you feel dizzy, stop.
If you have a regular workout routine, see if there are other balance exercises you can include. You might also want to try relaxing exercises such as tai chi.
Senior Cuisine Delivered
Experience restaurant-quality meals specially made for Orange County’s older adults, delivered safely to your home. Choose from among your favorite participating restaurants and caterers, and receive lunch and dinner for two for four or six days a week. Meals are affordably priced at $9.95 each, with no additional delivery costs. Customers receive $15 off when they subscribe for two weeks. Use code 15OFF at checkout. There is a $7.50 discount for the first week, and a $7.50 discount for the second week.
Meal providers for the Seal Beach area include Blue Stone Kitchen, Jewish Community Services of OC, Norms and Zest in a Bowl. The provider will contact you to arrange delivery. No meal preparation is needed; just heat and eat. Place your order online at https://seniorcuisinedelivered.mealsonwheelsoc.org/collections/resturaunts/seal-beach.
For help or more information, call (714) 823-3294.
HCC Classes
Laughter Yoga. By combining laughter and yoga breathing, you can get more oxygen in your body, giving you more energy. This free Zoom class is sponsored by Monarch and SCAN’s Independence at Home. No RSVP required. Classes are held the first and third Friday of each month from 1-2 p.m. The Zoom meeting ID is 976 5589 4458.
Stability and Balance. Build up your muscles and help prevent falls with this free virtual class sponsored by Monarch and SCAN Health Plan. Every Saturday at 11 a.m., an instructor demonstrates exercises. The Zoom meeting ID is 849 82522530, and the passcode is practice.
Meals on Wheels, Long Beach
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach Inc. delivers freshly cooked meals for $8.25 per day Monday-Friday, between 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Deliveries include an 8-ounce carton of 1 percent milk. An alternate dessert is available for those on a diabetic diet. Contact Caron Adler at (562) 439-5000, ext. 2, or visit www.mowlb.org to complete an online application. To cancel a meal for the following day, you must contact Adler before 9 a.m. the prior business day. Menu is subject to change without notice.
Thursday, Feb. 25: Beef stroganoff with egg noodles, seasoned carrots, and zucchini medley; fresh banana; turkey-and-cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, plus homemade potato salad.
Friday, Feb. 26: Baked salmon with lemon-dill sauce, barley pilaf, and mixed vegetables; cubed cantaloupe; Chinese chicken salad with mandarin oranges, cabbage, carrots, onion and Asian dressing, plus crackers.
Monday, March 1: Oven-baked chicken mole (leg and thigh), pinto beans and seasoned broccoli; fresh orange; egg-salad sandwich with spinach and tomato, plus marinated beet-and-onion salad.
Tuesday, March 2: Oven-roasted pork with honey-mustard sauce, barley pilaf and zucchini medley; cantaloupe; entrée turkey-and-ham cobb salad with egg, tomato, bacon and blue cheese dressing, plus crackers.
Wednesday, March 3: Beef picado, Spanish rice and black beans; pineapple with mango; turkey-and-cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, plus macaroni salad.
Drive-Through COVID Testing
The Orange County Health Care Agency continues to offer free COVID-19 tests at the Orange County Fairgrounds and the Anaheim Convention Center. The PCR tests are free, but appointments are required via 360clinic.fulgentgenetics.com/. The fairgrounds site is open Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m., and the convention center is open Tuesday-Friday, noon-7 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
People will need to wear a mask and bring ID and confirmation of the appointment (printed out or via smartphone). Attendees may arrive up to 15 minutes prior or after, but after this window, they must reschedule.
At the appointment, expect to complete a brief medical assessment prior to the test itself, which involves self-swabbing the inside of the nose. Results are emailed up to three days later.
For more details, visit occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/supersite.
Religion, 13-15
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
By Jim Greer
LW contributor
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “We honor and respect sincere souls from all religions, no matter where or when they lived, who have loved God.” We “embrace them as brothers and sisters, children of our Heavenly Father.”
With the Passover and Easter approaching, there are practices observed around the world that inspire us. Although we don’t practice all these traditions, watching others celebrating the holy week can make our celebrations more meaningful.
Christians around the world celebrate Lent with spiritual humility six weeks before Easter. Believers observe the Lenten season through sacrifice, including days of fasting and almsgiving. During Lent, believers abstain from something physical, like a favorite food, game, TV show, or hobby and instead focus their time on spiritual study and prayer.
Easter is a transformative experience. Though Latter-day Saints don’t observe Lent, learning about it makes us want to give more time to remembering and preparing spiritually for Easter. Fasting, studying the Scriptures and doing family history remind us what the Lord’s sacrifice meant to our ancestors and can mean to us.
For many, dyeing boiled eggs is a beloved tradition. In European countries like Ukraine and Lithuania, the process is intricate. Instead of merely boiling eggs, they are hollowed, detailed with beautiful wax patterns, and then painted. The final product symbolizes the empty tomb and the hope the Resurrection brings.
Many Christians partake of the Lord’s Supper, or what we call the sacrament. The more we learn about how important the sacrament symbols are to other religions, the less we will take them for granted.
Latter-day Saints and our fellow Christians prepare spiritually and mentally for the sacrament before partaking. As a result of this meaningful preparation, believers further discover the power of the sacrament again and again. Ponder the many ways you can better prepare yourself spiritually for the sacrament, and focus on what this sacred ordinance truly symbolizes.
Around the world, religiously observant children of God celebrate the holy week in different, profound ways. In Spain, church bells stop ringing a few days before Easter to honor Christ’s suffering and death. Then, on Easter morning, the bells return. In Russia, family, friends, and strangers greet one another with “He is risen” and hear “Indeed, He is risen” in reply.
Easter celebrates the most joyous event for believers. It’s an experience that brings eternal hope. Believers and cultures worldwide are encouraged to make their celebrations meaningful to draw them closer to God through thoughtful preparation and devotion. As we observe Easter’s traditions, we come closer to Christ and are once again reminded why we celebrate.
LW Baptist
By Rolland Coburn
Pastor
The Bible says Jesus is Lord. Conversations in Luke 6 show this in action.
One Sabbath conversation occurred in a grainfield. Jesus crossed with his disciples, who plucked, shucked and snacked on the grain, as God’s law permitted. Pharisees watching accused them of Sabbath-breaking, of harvesting, though they carried nothing away. They faulted Jesus’ allowing it. But Jesus rejected the accusation. Who dares to condemn God’s people?
Christ Jesus, who died and was raised and is now at the father’s right hand intercedes for us. Jesus rebuked the accusers with Scripture, which exempts David from censure, when he and his companions, hungry, ate the priests’ bread. Then Jesus stated something they’d never heard. He said, “I, the Son of Man, am Lord of the Sabbath—that is, not you.” Jesus is Lord. His word is law. He created the Sabbath. He alone rules on obedience to his word. No word prevails against his people. Accusers and critics answer to him. If God is for us, who can stand against us?
Another Sabbath conversation was in synagogue. A man had a withered hand. Pharisees waited to fault Jesus for Sabbath healings. The Bible says Jesus knew their thoughts. He called the man forward. Jesus then asked them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or evil, to save life or kill?” No answer. So Jesus called the man to show his faith. Jesus said, “Stretch out your hand.” The man obeyed, and his hand instantly was restored. Enraged the Pharisees left to discuss what to do with Jesus, but Jesus is the final judge. The father has given him, all things and the authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man. Mercy triumphs over judgment. Jesus is Lord; to him every knee will bow, every tongue give account.
A hillside conversation transpired where Jesus had spent all night alone praying to the father. At daylight, Jesus, summoning his followers, chose 12 to name as apostles—or ambassadors—sent to continue his work in his name. The Bible lists them as Peter, James, John and the rest, all ordinary people—fishermen, a tax collector, a zealous Jewish patriot, among others. None of these men was considered wise, mighty or noble by human standards. However Jesus still chose them to become his instruments to change the world. These men wrote the New Testament and spread Jesus’ gospel of grace to the world. Jesus and his word filled their hearts. The Gospel’s power would clearly be of God, not of themselves; their faith rested on God’s power, not man’s wisdom. Jesus gave them spiritual abilities and authority to build his church. Jesus gives all of his people the opportunity to continue building up the church. Jesus assigns our various roles to fulfill in his power, not ours, because he is Lord.
LW Baptist Church meets Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in the Amphitheater.
First Christian Church
By Bruce Humes
Pastor
The phrase “This is a faithful saying” is recorded in several places in the Holy Scriptures. Let’s look at a few.
In Titus 3:8, we read, “This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.”
As believers, we are called to good works, which are profitable, meaning helpful to all men. The apostle Paul put it like this in Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” It is something that should be part of our daily lives, something that is second nature, something we do not have to even to think about.
We also must remember that we are not saved by good works, as Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boost.”
Paul records another faithful saying for us in 1 Timothy 1:15: “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” Our place in eternity relies on our acceptance of this faithful saying.
John 3:17 says that “God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.” That was his purpose; the reason he came to earth was to save mankind.
Finally, another faithful saying is recorded in Paul’s second letter to Timothy in chapter 2, verses 11-13, “This is a faithful saying: For if we died with him, we shall also live with him. If we endure, we shall also reign with him. If we deny him, he also will deny us. If we are faithless, he remains faithful; he cannot deny himself”
Paul’s message here is clear: if we died with him, we live with him. This is referring to our (believers) spiritual participation in Christ’s death and resurrection, even to the point of martyrdom, which Paul experienced; we will live with him, speaks of our eternal life in his kingdom. If we endure (which means to remain faithful), we have the wonderful promise of reigning with him in glory in that future eternal kingdom.
But, if we deny him, he will deny us. Jesus said in Matthew 10:32-33, “Therefore whoever confesses me before men, him I will also confess before my father who is in heaven. But whoever denies me before men, him I will also deny before my father who is in heaven.” These words describe an unbeliever or a person who remains faithless. Despite this, God remains faithful, meaning he will keep his judgements and his promises. That is God’s character and sovereignty over his creation. We need to heed his word in our lives.
If you want to speak to someone at the church or have a need, call First Christian Church office at (562) 431-8810. Leave a message, and someone will return your call as soon as possible.
Holy Family Catholic Church
Holy Family Catholic Church, 13900 Church Place, next to the St. Andrews Gate, will observe the Second Sunday of Lent on Sunday, Feb. 28.
The First Reading is from Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18, and the Second Reading is Romans 8:31b-34. The Gospel reading will be from Mark 9:2-10.
First Friday Devotion
First Friday Devotion will be held on March 5. Holy Mass is at 8:30 a.m., and the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available after the Stations of the Cross.
“I promise you, in the excessive mercy of my heart that my all powerful love will grant to all those who receive Holy Communion on the first Friday for nine consecutive months, they shall not die in my disgrace nor without receiving the sacraments; my divine heart shall be their safe refuge in that last moment.” – Our Lord to St. Margaret Mary.
Masses
To receive a copy of the weekly parish bulletin, sign up at https://ebulletin.jspaluch.com or https://www.jspaluch.com/Subscribe.
The church is now open to public entry and can return to its regular Mass schedule. Saturday (Vigil Mass) is at 4 p.m. and Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon.
Those who attend must a wear a mask or face shield, sit socially distanced, and use hand sanitizer upon entry into the building.
Redeemer Lutheran and St. Theodore’s
By Lisa Rotchford
Reverend
One thing we do even during the most strict stay-at-home restrictions is pray. A prayer request box has been installed near Redeemer Lutheran Church’s front door for anyone to use.
The Leisure World Interfaith Council encourages all to visit Redeemer, 13564 Saint Andrew’s Drive, and use the paper and pens to write a prayer request. Think of the locked, copper-toned mailbox as a way to share your concerns with your creator. Let go of fear, discouragement, frustration and sadness, and share thanksgivings and blessings.
This new physical prayer station will be dedicated during the upcoming Passover and Lenten season as a way of staying spiritually close–while remaining socially distant–with the one who loves us and knows our needs before we even ask. May God bless us and bring us closer together in prayer.
Beit HaLev
Be happy, it’s Purim! Tonight, Feb. 25, is Erev Purim, and Beit HaLev will present a special Purim Shpiel (play) to celebrate Judaism’s craziest festival. Bring your own libation and noisemakers to our “Zoomagogue,” and if you wear a costume, you will be given a role to play. If anyone wears the same costume as someone else, the role will be shared. Scripts and music will be sent to those who want to participate. There will be no rehearsals because the more chaos, the more fun it will be. To Join on Zoom, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9152434704?pwd=THJGTE1OUXI5VXFDTWtuZHF4K3VxUT09. The meeting ID is 915 243 4704, and the passcode is RavGalit.
Beit HaLev’s Coffee Chavurah on Zoom will celebrate the Sabbath evening, Friday, Feb. 26, at 5:30, followed by the evening service at 6. On Saturday, Feb. 27, the morning service begins at 10:30, followed by the Coffee Chavurah.
Beit HaLev continues to livestream on Facebook as well. To attend, go to Rabbi Galit Shirah’s website at Facebook.com/galityomtov.
Beit HaLev’s prayerbooks, “Lev L’Lev,” are shared onscreen on both Zoom and Facebook.
On Saturday morning, the Torah reading will be “Tetzaveh” (further instruct). It describes the special clothing to be worn by Aaron, the High Priest. The hem of his robe was decorated with pomegranates of blue, crimson and purple with alternating bells of gold echoing the colors of the tabernacle. The reading continues with a description of his headdress and the inscription, “Holy to Adonai” in pure gold, followed by instructions on the ritual of sacrifices made in preparation for the ordination of Aaron and his sons.
Rabbi Shirah conducts a weekday Ma’ariv service every Thursday for Sim Shalom, the online synagogue. Sim Shalom presents livestream services Monday-Thursday, with a different rabbi each day. To say Kaddish, pray for healing and to hear a spiritual message, go to www.SimShalom.com.
Zoom classes for beginning Hebrew and Pirke Avot will begin soon. For information, contact the rabbi at (562) 715-0888 or duets@icloud.com.
Assembly of God
By Sheryl Franco
Co-pastor
What delights your heart? My heart’s delight these days centers on family. We just celebrated a milestone birthday with my mother. As a surprise, I asked our sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren to each write a special thought or memory to read to Gigi at our little family gathering. Each of my mother’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren read a unique memory or tribute to her. The children presented theirs in handmade cards of construction paper and crayon. The sweet voices expressing their love and appreciation for sleepovers, meals at In-N-Out, intense “conversations” between Gigi and a 4 -month-old infant, road trips, and the world’s best brownies brought tears to everyone’s eyes, especially the birthday girl. To sit and experience the quiet joy of the moment was a sweet delight I will always treasure. Delight plucks a tender heartstring that mere happiness can never find.
The promise of God that Pastor Chuck will share about this Sunday, Feb. 28, comes from Psalm 37:4: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
How do we delight ourselves in the Lord, and what are the desires of our heart?
Delight is used as a verb here, a word that necessitates action. There is an instruction here that requires us to submit our will to his will. It compels us to look to God, not our own ideas or efforts, to define and realize our hearts’ desires.
One source tells us that the heart in Scripture references the ruling center of the whole person. It is the spring of all desires, as we have heard it said that the “heart wants what the heart wants.” But Jeremiah 17:9-10 says the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately sick. Who wants to attain the desires that spring from that kind of heart?
I would suggest the referenced statement be modified to read that the heart wants what we allow it to want. We are naturally predisposed to put ourselves in God’s place and make the achievement of our own selfish desires preeminent. Something miraculous and holy happens when we delight ourselves in the Lord. The more we delight ourselves in the Lord, the more the darkness diminishes. The more the darkness diminishes, the more pure and God-honoring our hearts’ desires becomes. The more pure and God-honoring our hearts’ desires become, the more we desire to delight ourselves in the Lord. See how that works?
Delight yourself in fresh ways in the Lord this week. Begin to redefine your heart’s desire. Before you open your Bible to read, ask God to give you insight into scripture that you have never had before. Ask him to reveal truth through his word that is relevant to your triumphs and your struggles. Pray intentionally, acknowledging that you are in the presence of the king of kings. Revel in his goodness. Thank him for his kindness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and enjoy the fulfillment of your heart’s desire.
Join Assembly of God in the Amphitheater on Sundays at 11 a.m. for live worship, biblically faithful preaching and the fellowship of happy people.
Faith Christian Assembly
Everyone knows that life brings challenges to each of us. At times these challenges can seem overwhelming however, Faith Christian Assembly wants you to know that you are not alone. It offers a special opportunity at each service for anyone in attendance to have an elder pray for them. James 5:13-14 says, “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.”
Out of an abundance of caution, all who attend services or events at Faith Christian Assembly will have their temperature taken at the door, be required to wear a mask before and after service, and have to sit socially distant from others. Those who are ill should remain at home.
Due to COVID-19, Faith Christian Assembly is not having all of its regular ministries at this time. Call the church office for the most updated information on midweek Bible study, which is taught by Pastor Sheri Leming on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Grief Share’s weekly meetings are Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.
To receive a free newsletter and for more information on the church, call (562) 598-9010 or visit the website at www.FCAchurch.net.
Community Church
Johan Dodge
Reverend
As I write this, more and more of our community have been vaccinated, and we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We are truly blessed. Now the race is on to get the rest of the surrounding area vaccinated before the new variants spread.
In the midst of this waiting, we find ourselves in the season of Lent. It is a time for reflection and confessing that maybe we have not always had the correct understanding of things.
In the Gospel lesson this week, we will learn about Peter, who was originally called Simon, and then renamed Peter by Jesus. The name Peter means rock, and Peter is at times stubborn and thick-headed. The Gospel lesson reminds us that we are all tempted to hold on to things that ultimately are not of God or the way God is actually working in the world. Lent is a time in which to unlearn what we have learned and to let go of the lies we have been told or have told ourselves that up come empty before God. It is a time to pray that God’s Holy Spirit will fill us with his love for all of the world.
If you have been caught up with thoughts recently, join Community Church via Zoom on Sunday at 9:50 a.m. for live worship and fellowship. Call the church office or email leisurewccsue@yahoo.com to receive a Zoom link. Those who don’t have a computer or Facebook can call (562) 431-2503 and listen to the weekly message beginning Sunday evening.
Easter is on Sunday, April 4, and Community Church hopes to open for those who can show they have been vaccinated.
There is a Lenten resource available in the church office with daily Scripture and weekly prayers. Contact the church office to have one sent to you or to pick up a copy.
If you are in need without another way to address it, call the church office at (562) 431-2503.
Congregation Sholom
Congregation Sholom has been invited to participate in a Purim celebration with the Jewish Collaborative of Orange County. The event will be held today, Feb. 25, starting at at 5:30 p.m. The Family Fun event begins at 5:30, Ma’Arivis at 6:15, followed by Megillah reading and virtual Shpiel and singing starting at 6:45. Be sure to bring your own Hamantaschen and groggers. The Zoom Link for the Purim celebration is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83488552085#success. You can also join via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JewishCollaborativeOC.
Rabbi Eric Dangott will live-stream services on Friday, Feb. 26, at 6:30 p.m. and on Saturday, Feb. 27, at 9:30 a.m. via Zoom.
New members who want to watch the livestream should contact Jeff Sacks to receive a Zoom invitation. Text Jeff at (714) 642-0122, or email him at jfsacks@gmail.com. The link will have the meeting ID and password embedded. Those who want more details or need to practice beforehand can call Jeff ahead of time. The phone number to call for those who do not have Internet service is (669) 900-9128, the meeting ID is 375 251 9429.
To join the Zoom meeting, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3752519429?pwd=UDREWTA1N21jaXVUZUhyQmY1U01JQT09.The meeting ID is 375 251 9429, and the passcode is 8ZYy69.
Congregation Sholom has silk-screened, reusable Congregation Sholom of Leisure World masks for sale for $5 each or four masks for $18, shipping included. All proceeds will go to the general fund.Email Murray Pollack at murrjet@yahoo.com or call (562) 331 -3949 to place an order.
Bingo with Susan Michlin will be this Sunday, Feb. 28, at 4 p.m. via Zoom.
A Prayer for Receiving the COVID Vaccine
Editor’s note: This poem by Rabbi Naomi Levy was submitted by LW contributor Carol Levine.
“I have been praying for this day and now it is here!
With great excitement, a touch of trepidation
And with deep gratitude I give thanks
To all the scientists who toiled day and night
So that I might receive this tiny vaccination
That will protect me and all souls around this world.
With the pandemic still raging I am blessed to do my part to defeat it.
Let this be the beginning of a new day,
A new time of hope, of joy, of freedom
And most of all, of health.
I thank You, God, for blessing me with life
For sustaining my life
And for enabling me to reach this awe-filled moment.
Amen”
Community, pages 16-18
GAf
Drop-off shredding service is happening March 4
The Golden Age Foundation’s shredding service event in the Clubhouse 2 parking lot will be held Thursday, March 4, from 10 a.m.–noon. The event will be a drop-and-go service only, so residents will not have to wait in line to have their items shredded.
GAF sponsors this free service and will be at the event to help shareholders if needed. Social distancing will be strictly enforced, and shareholders must wear face masks when dropping off materials.
The following rules and regulations will be in effect during the event:
All shareholders are asked to drop off their documents and leave to encourage social distancing.
There will be no chairs at the event, and no line will be allowed to form.
Cardboard boxes will not be accepted. Plastic or paper bags are allowed.
GAF volunteers will guard the bags residents drop off until a truck arrives to shred them.
For better shredding service, shareholder should remember:
Remove all staples and paper clips.
No electronic devices will be accepted.
Contaminated bags will be turned away.
GAF also sponsors small battery disposal. Shareholders may bring used batteries to be disposed.
Printer cartridges and hearing-aid batteries will not be accepted.
The next event will be in July.
The GAF is an independent nonprofit, 501(c)3 charitable organization dedicated to serving the residents of Leisure World Seal Beach. Its purpose is to help make the community a better place to live. It was established in 1973 and is not affiliated with the Golden Rain Foundation.
All GAF programs are provided free to Leisure World shareholders. GAF is entirely staffed by volunteers, so all contributions go directly to meeting community needs. The generous support of shareholders, residents, clubs, organizations and businesses is the main source of income for the organization. GAF programs and projects are made possible by the volunteer efforts of many members.
Contact Anna Derby at (562) 301-5339 for more information.
Sunshine Club
Refresh your memory on basic health practices this Friday
We are complex beings. There are many factors that are important for us to lead healthy lives. Yet much of healthcare today consists of quick visits with a medical doctor and then off to the pharmacy to get some medications. Our healthcare system has become often rushed and impersonal, and dominated by big business and pharmaceutical drugs with new pharmaceutical drugs advertised on TV all the time.
Dr. Leyla Ali will give a presentation titled “The Forgotten Basics of Health” to the Sunshine Club on Friday, Feb. 26 at 10 a.m. During the presentation, Ali will provide information about nutrition, detoxification, natural products, power of the mind, emotional health, lifestyle and other useful resources to maintain health and wellness.
All shareholders are welcome to participate. To join the Zoom meeting, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84982089743?pwd=UGR3RlZRaUJmWmlSNE9KdTdNMUh3QT09. The meeting ID is 849 8208 9743, and the passcode is 508742.
Those who would like to get a Zoom link by email can text their name, Mutual number and email address to (562) 301-5339 by no later than today, Feb. 25, at 5 p.m.
Ali is a pharmacist, speaker, and author of “Off Balance, the American Way of Health: A Pharmacist’s Perspective on Why Drugs Don’t Work.”
The Sunshine Club often has LW leaders come to meetings to introduce their organizations to the group. It also invites a wide variety of specialists from outside Leisure World to share their experiences and ideas with club members.
For more information, contact Anna Derby at (562) 301-5339.
gaf
Ellen Larsen donates $2,000
Ellen Larsen donated $2,000 to the Golden Age Foundation to help support its services to the Leisure World community.
Ellen and her husband, Carl Larsen, retired and moved to LW in 1989. Both became heavily involved in Leisure World from the start, each serving on GRF andMutual boards. Ellen served on the GRF board for 12 years, notably during the LW flood of 1995 and the recovery afterward. Carl served on Mutual 14’s board for 12 years, including one year as president. On top of serving on the GRF board, Ellen has been a prolific volunteer and community member in Leisure World. In addition to volunteering for the GAF, she has served in the hospitality program since it began over 20 years ago.
She also has been very generous toward the GAF through monetary donations. When her husband of 58 years passed away in 2014, Ellen purchased a bus bench with shelter in Carl’s name. It is located on Sunningdale Circle in Mutual 14.
In her free time, Ellen attended the water aerobics class at the LW pool up until its closure. She looks forward to the reopening of the pool so that she can get back to the exercise that she enjoys.
Ellen has three children, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
For more information about the GAF and its services, go to www.goldenagefdn.org.
Vons switches to third-party grocery delivery
Starting Saturday, Feb. 27, Vons grocery stores will no longer employ its own delivery drivers and instead use third-party apps such as Instacart and DoorDash. The move was influenced partly because of the high demand for grocery delivery due to the pandemic. Many grocery stores in Southern California had already made the switch to third-party apps to deliver food.
Delivery services will remain relatively the same. You can order your groceries through the Instacart app (available for download in the App Store for Iphone and the
Google Play Store for Androids) or by going to www.delivery.vons.com, which will take you through the form to sign up for Instacart, after which you will be able to order groceries as usual. Be aware that due to Instacart’s policy, you must have a valid drivers licsence or other form of ID to give to the person delievering your groceries.
There is a $3.99 delivery fee for each purchase, or you can pay a monthly fee of $9.99 or a yearly fee of $99 to get free delivery on orders over $35.
Delivery hours will be between 8 a.m.– 10 p.m., seven days a week.
Scam Report
How to avoid common scams
By Laurie Bullock
laurieb@lwsb.com
Unfortunately, seniors are one of the most targeted groups for financial scams. Scammers may target seniors by telephone, in person or online. It can happen to anyone at any time, no matter what your current financial situation may be. Luckily, there are a few things seniors can do to prevent getting scammed.
1. Take yourself off calling lists. While it won’t prevent every call from coming through, you can visit www.donotcall.gov to take your number off telemarketer listings. This can help lower the number of unwanted calls that may try to scam you.
2. Never give your credit card, Social Security number or any other personal information on a phone call you did not initiate. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a collections agency or your bank and they need your personal information immediately or something bad will happen to your account, hang up. Look up the company’s number online or by phonebook to call them directly. It will most likely turn out to be a scam. Scammers have the technology to hide their numbers to look like a familiar number, so it’s always best to avoid giving your information to someone who has called you.
3. Take your time. Scammers thrive on fear. They will call you with a dire situation and try to get you to act immediately. Although it might seem like a scary situation, take a deep breath, hang up the phone or put off replying to the email, and talk to someone you trust to get his or her opinion. A trusted loved one can help bring perspective to a scary situation and protect you from a potential scam.
GAF distributed 3,200 masks to Meals On Wheels Long Beach
By Anna Derby
GRF president
The Golden Age Foundation has received another generous donation of disposable face masks from Global Specialty Services (GSS), a rapid-response contractor located in Dallas, Texas that specializes in environmental response and disaster recovery.
GAF continues to work with the Golden Rain Foundation to distribute masks to GRF employees and contractors as well as shareholders who were unable to obtain a mask.
One of the important areas GAF focused on while distributing the 24,000 disposable mask donation was to provide for those who aren’t able get around by themselves.
Meals On Wheels Long Beach has a total of 160 daily recipients from Leisure World. Each recieved two packets of disposable face masks with his or her recent meal deliveries.
MOWLB was founded in 1971 to support the independence and well-being of homebound seniors, veterans and the disabled.
This program is designed specifically to meet the nutritional and social needs of seniors.
Meals On Wheels Orange County has 60 recipients in Leisure World that will also receive masks with their daily meals.
The Y’s Service Club volunteers, who often visit shareholders’ houses to do small jobs, also received a mask donation.
The GAF is grateful it can help to ensure the safety of the community by providing masks to employees and residents.
The GAF extends its deep gratitude to Larry Dunn, CEO of GSS, who generously donated the masks, and to Michael Rettig, who facilitated the donation.
For more information, go to www.goldenagefdn.org.
SBTV-3 Listings
SBTV-3 airs on TWC-Spectrum Channel 3, Frontier Fios Channel 37 and online streaming at sbtv3.org/schedule. Have Roku? Go to http://roku.streamsource.tv/add/sbtv. The playback schedule is available at SBTV3.org.
Thursday, Feb. 25
4 pm Vinyl Rock Valentine
6:15 pm Nova Scotia Road Trip
6:30 pm Tommy Williams:
Memorial Songs
7 pm LW Season of Love
8 pm A Tribute to Ole’ Blue Eyes
9:10 pm Aquarium of the Pacific
9:30 pm Ocean Perspectives
10 pm Shakespeare in the Park:
Cymbeline
Friday, Feb. 26
4 pm Christmas in Quarantine:
The Pops
4:15 pm Golf Cart Christmas Parade
4:30 pm Season of Love
5:30 pm SB Lions Club Veterans Day
Car Caravan
5:39 pm Aquarium of the Pacific
5:50 pm Nova Scotia Road Trip
6 pm Los Al Jazz Band 2018
6:35 pm Sea Inside
7 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade
8 pm Tommy Williams
Memorial Songs
8:30 pm Bob Cole Conservancy
9 pm Shakespeare in the Park:
Othello
10:30 pm Cerritos Center-
Golden Dragon Acrobats
Saturday, Feb. 27
4 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade
5 pm Hui O Hula 2021
6 pm Christmas in Quarantine:
The Pops
6:45 pm McGaugh Third Grade Show
7:30 pm Ocean Perspectives
8 pm LAUSD
11 pm Cerritos Center-
Matt Mauser
Sunday, Feb. 28
4 pm Seal Beach City Council
Meeting–2/22 Replay
7 pm Life and Times in SB:
The Lawhead Brothers
8 pm Life and Times in SB:
Paula Thomas
9 pm Cabaret Music Around
the World
10:20 pm Nova Scotia Road Trip
10:30 pm Oceanscapes
11 pm Sea Inside
11:30 pm Bob Cole Conservancy
Monday, March 1
4 pm McGaugh First Grade Concert
4:45 pm Nova Scotia Road Trip
5 pm Tommy Williams:
Memorial Songs
5:30 pm Hui O Hula 2021
6:30 pm Ocean Perspectives
7 pm McGaugh Pageant of the
Arts 2019
8:15 pm A Tribute to Ole’ Blue Eyes
9:30 pm Oceanscapes #2
10 pm Shakespeare in the Park:
Taming of the Shrew
Tuesday, March 2
4 pm Valentine’s Day Card for You
4:15 pm Christmas Quarantine Show:
The Pops
5 pm A Tribute to Ole’ Blue Eyes
6:15 pm McGaugh First Grade Show
7 pm Life and Times in SB:
Lawhead Brothers
8 pm Ocean Perspectives
8:30 pm Hui O Hula 2021
9:30 pm Bob Cole Conservancy
10 pm Cerritos Center–
Matt Mauser
Wednesday, March 3
4 pm LW Rollin’ Thunder
4:07 pm Nova Scotia Road Trip
4:15 pm A Tribute to Ole’ Blue Eyes
5:30 pm Oceanscapes #2
6 pm Life and Times in SB:
The Lawhead Brothers
7 pm Ocean Perspectives
8 pm Shakespeare in the Park:
Merry Wives of Windsor
10 pm Cerritos Center-
The Four Tenors
*All programming is subject to change.
Chess Club
The Chess Club publishes weekly puzzles to keep the love of the game alive since members can no longer meet to play in person.
This week’s puzzle is checkmate in three moves.
White moves first. Any answer by black, the white’s third move is checkmate.
Solution to this week’s puzzle is: first move is Ne6. The white knight moves from G5 to E6.
Republican Club
By Brian Harmon
LW contributor
Republican Club President David Harlow stressed the importance of electing John Moorlach to the OC Board of Supervisors in the March 9 election at the Republican Club’s February meeting.
“It wouldn’t be a problem having so many Republican candidates if there was going to be a run-off election,” he said. “But since there is not, we have to get everyone to support Moorlach and not split the vote.”
Mail-in ballots have been sent out, so people may vote ahead of Election Day on March 9.
Harlow also announced that the club is running an ad in the LW Weekly supporting Moorlach. (See page 15.)
Moorlach has been county treasurer, a county supervisor and a state senator. He first entered the political arena when he realized that the investment policies of the then county treasurer would put Orange County in a dangerous financial position.
Though he lost the election by over 20 points, within a month, the county was facing bankruptcy, the first county in America ever to do so.
The board appointed Moorlach to be interim treasurer to finish the incumbent’s term. He led OC out of its financial crisis and was overwhelmingly elected two years later.
Since that time, he has been nationally recognized as an expert on state and municipal finance.
Moorlach has been endorsed by the LW Republican Club, the OC Republican Party, the Lincoln Club and the OC Register. The Register said that Moorlach is “one of the Capitol’s most intelligent and influential members” in its endorsement editorial.
In the state Senate, he has worked with Democratic senators to slow the rapid growth of state and local pension liabilities to stave off the possibility of future economic collapse. This is why public sector unions have spent millions to defeat him.
He has also helped Democratic lawmakers forge a new approach to homelessness, especially as it relates to mental illness.
In other business, Harlow announced that 144 signatures have been collected to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom.
It looks like enough signatures will be collected statewide to force a recall election. If so, the election will take place 60 to 80 days after the signatures are certified.
If this occurs, the ballot will ask whether voters want to recall the governor and who they want to replace him. Possibly hundreds of people could be on the ballot. Whoever gets the most votes would become governor. There will be no run-off election. •••
Congresswoman Michelle Steel announced last week that she has been appointed to the Education and Labor Committee of the House.
Steel said, “This assignment will give me the opportunity to work on advancing school choice, allowing families to choose the best schools for their children based on their individual needs. This is a great opportunity to work on behalf of Orange County families and workers.”
She was also named to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
•••
The Republican Club booth will be open Wednesdays from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. in the parking lot in front of Clubhouse 6 for anyone who wants to drop off ballots, sign the Recall Newsom petitions, get voter information, or sign up to receive announcements about what the club is doing. Anyone who cannot physically attend the booth and wants to sign a recall petition can call (714) 928-1950 to have someone come to their door. To sign up to receive club announcements, email dharlow50@aol.com.
Democratic Club
By Mary Larson
LW contributor
Katrina Foley for Orange County Board of Supervisor yard/window signs are now available for pickup in Leisure World at 1460 Pelham Road, 106-G, in Mutual 5. Ample parking is available on Pelham Road. No appointment is necessary. If you need to have a sign delivered to your unit, email democraticclubsblw@gmail.com with your contact information.
Foley is the only candidate running in the March 9 special election who has been endorsed by the Seal Beach Leisure World Democratic Club and the Democratic Party of Orange County. Her three major opponents in the race—Mike Yo, Kevin Muldoon and John Moorlach—are all Republicans. If elected, Katrina will be the second Democrat on the five-member Board of Supervisors.
In addition to being endorsed by the LW Democratic Club, Foley has also been endorsed by 11 other Democratic clubs, 70 local active or retired Orange County elected officials, and 18 community-based organizations. The list includes the Orange County Professional Firefighters Association, the Association of Orange County Deputy District Attorneys, the National Union of Healthcare Workers, and the Community Action Fund of Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties.
Foley is a community leader, successful businesswoman and attorney who became Costa Mesa’s first directly elected mayor in November 2018 and was re-elected in 2020. She also served as mayor in 2016-2017 and has been on the Costa Mesa City Council for 14 years.
Katrina is also president of The Foley Group, a professional law corporation. In 2001 and 2004, she was honored by Women in Leadership and the National Association of Women Business Owners at the annual Remarkable Women Awards event. As the daughter and wife of union members, she has always stood with California’s workers and working families. In law school, she established the Seattle University School of Low’s first women’s resource center to serve domestic violence victims and chaired the women’s law caucus. The small clinic is now well-established and run by the law school. If elected, Katrina will continue to help ensure women have access to the health care services they need.
If you have trouble casting or delivering your ballot to the drop box near the Amphitheater, call (562) 412-0898 or (562) 396-8521 for assistance.
•••
If you are a Democrat or a supporter of Democratic principles and want to know more about the club, subscribe to the free electronic newsletter. Email the editor, Mary Larson, at democraticclubsblw@gmail.com or call (562) 296-8521. Remember to include your full contact information.
If you have not joined or renewed your membership for 2021, try to do so before the end of February. Even if you are unable to pay the annual dues at this time or attend our Zoom meetings, your membership is still important.
Both new and renewal 2021 membership forms are available by calling (562) 431-7275 or by going online at https://sblwdems.wordpress.com/democratic-club-membership-2/.
Obituaries, page 18
•••
Bert Robert Sellers Jr.
1936-2020
Bert Robert Sellers Jr. passed away Dec. 30, 2020. Bert was born Sept. 20, 1936 in Hickory, North Carolina, to Bert and Mable Sellers. Bert joined the Navy after high school from 1955-1959. He did his basic training at Great Lakes, Illinois, and was on the heavy Cruiser USS Columbus CA74 untill 1958. His home port was in Long Beach, California, which is where he meet his first wife, Vicki, and they were married in June 1958 for 20 years.
They had three sons, Mark, Steve and Scott. He also had one grandson, four granddaughters and three great-granddaughters.
After getting out of the Navy in 1959, he went to work for Teledyne and stayed with them for over 40 years before retiring.
Bert coached peewee ball, was a Cub Scout Master and Boy Scout Masters and was also on the Long Beach Scout Council.
After being married for 20 years, he became single and lived on a 40-foot cabin cruiser for another 20 years. Bert loved his Corvettes and to go dancing throughout Long Beach, before marrying his second wife, Diane, in 1997. She had three sons, a daughter, and several grandkids and great-grandkids.
Bert and Diane loved to travel in their motorhome to visit their kids and other family members. Bert was active in playing cribbage and ponochle in Leisure World and had many wonderful friends and at his hangout at the Primrose. A Celebration of Life was held Saturday Feb. 6, at Calvary Cross Chapel.
•••
Laura P. Lewis
1949-2021
Laura P. Lewis, born Laura P. Armstrong on Jan. 24, 1949, to Bill and Corrine Armstrong in Long Beach, California. She graduated from Long Beach City College with a bachelor’s in education. She married Terry Lewis on June 8, 1968, and they had three children, Jeffery, Amber and Joelle, along with seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
The two lived in LW from 2013-2020 and were active in the Rolling Thunder and the RV clubs. They moved to Apple Valley, California, in June 2020, where she passed away from a short illness on Jan. 21.
•••
In Memoriam:
Teresa Leyva 61
Michael Kozik 74
Magdalena Padilla 71
Kwang Yong Oho 74
Gabriel Martinez 47
Francisco Fernandez 61
Norman Nichols 60
Esther Schouweiler 86
Sakun Proeurng 67
Sosaiete Leilua 54
Ken Lindstorm 67
John Lew 75
Roxanne Narachi 59
David Johnson 57
Berlin McGee 80
Daniel Bloom 86
Linda Lim 67
Curtis Ross 83
Families assisted by
McKenzie Mortuary,
961-9301
—Paid obituary
••••
Space is available for obituaries of residents and former residents.
• An obituary with or withoutphoto is available free of charge for the first 250 words. Additional words will be charged at the rate of 25 cents per word.
• Notices from mortuaries and non-GRF members will be printed exactly as submitted and charged at the non-member classified advertising rate.
• Obituaries may be published as news articles when the person has been a member of the GRF Board of Directors, or when, in the opinion of the managing editor, the passing of a person is newsworthy to a sufficiently large number of GRF members.
• Send obituaries and photos in the form of jpegs to laurieb@lwsb.com
GENERAL
AVON
Lenora Browning, LW Resident. Phone 562-493-5457. Seal Beach Business License #BRN000. 07/01/21
———————————————————————–
SHAKLEE
Delivered to your door.
LW daughter
Sandy Vander Woudefikse.
(562) 618-8731. 03/04/21
———————————————————————-
JAFRA
By Helen
LW Resident. (562) 419-3557
www.jafra.com/hwells
Gifts for Valentine’s Day
Business License #WEL0015. 02/25
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Wanted female companion, Christian lady with good health & good sense of humor. Please call 714-815-9821. 02/25
HANDYMAN
SERVICES
Additions & Remodeling, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Windows, Tile & Stonework. State Contractor’s License #393071.
OGAN CONSTRUCTION, INC.
(562) 596-7757. 03/31/22
———————————————————————-
JR HOME REPAIRS. Quality work. Perfectionist, honest & reliable. Call JR 562-519-2764. SB Business License #JRH0001. 07/08/2021
———————————-
MP CONSTRUCTION
General Contractor
Specializing in remodeling, Additions, Reconstruction, Window replacement and more! Call for a free estimate.
562-746-5400.
License #954725. 04/22/21
——————————————–
562-596-0559
LW DECOR INC – LIC 723262
Install doors, new windows, recessed lights, fans, light fixtures. Cabinet refacing & refinishing, paint exterior window frames, ceilings made smooth, closets redone, misc. repairs. Kitchen/bathroom remodeling.
40+ yrs in LW.
LW DECOR INC
562-596-0559. 02/25/21
GARDENING
FRANK’S GARDENING SERVICE
Complete maintenance and landscape. Serving Leisure World since 1978. Planting, clean-ups, fertilization. New lawns, etc. Offering my services to all Mutual’s. Honest and reliable. State Contractor’s License #779462. Call 562-863-7739, 562-743-3832 or 714-527-1172.
BATHTUB & SHOWER REFINISHING
We refinish your TUB/SHOWER to look brand new.
Convert to a WALK-IN SHOWER and/or raise seat.
Nu Kote 562-833-3911
License #699080
Serving LW since 1999. 03/04/20
PAINTING
Painting – Free estimates. 1 room or entire house & refinish kitchen cabinets. Call Jerry (714) 826-8636.
CA State License #675336. 04/22
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Affordable – Professional,
Licensed and Insured.
Interior – exterior drywall repair, texturing, pressure washing,
cabinets. Senior discounts.
Cory Gee Painting 714-308-9931.
License #1049257. 04/01
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562-596-0559
LEISURE WORLD
DECORATORS
Lic 723262. 40+ yrs in LW. Interiors, cabinets, exterior window frames, kitchen, bath, doors, trim, primered only premium paints. Ceilings made smooth, crown moulding & baseboards installed.
LW Decor Inc.
562-596-0559. 02/25/21
FLOOR COVERINGS
562-596-0559
LW DECOR INC.
40+ yrs in LW. Vinyl plank, laminate, tile indoor and outdoor patio carpet. License 723262.
562-596-0559. 02/25/21
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY
CLEANING & REPAIR
All Year Carpet Cleaning since 1988.
Call Tito (562) 658 – 9841.
State Contractors Lic. #578194.04/15
SKYLIGHT SERVICES
SKYLIGHTS
CLEAN, REPAIR, REPLACE.
Licensed and insured.
Dan (562) 841-3787.
Seal Beach License #BRA0002. 03/11
WINDOW WASHING
WANT CLEAN WINDOWS?
I Clean Inside & Outside Or…
Clean Outside Only and Save $$$.
(562) 600-0014. LW Resident,
Rich Livitsky. Seal Beach
Business License #LIV0004. 03/04
WINDOW COVERINGS
562-596-0559
LEISURE WORLD DECORATORS
Shutters, blinds, roll-up shades, custom drapes.
562-596-0559. 02/25/21
Leisure World
Helping Leisure World
Y’s Service Club of the YMCA will assist residents with small non-professional jobs. We change light bulbs, clean air conditioner filters, hang a small picture or mirror, remove or place items on a high shelf, air bicycle tires, etc. Donations gladly accepted. Call weekdays between 9 am-5 pm, (562) 596-9906.
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Does your walker need new tennis balls? Delivery and installation provided. Please give your name and phone number. Free of charge.
Diane Hart 714-955-2885.
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“ROLLIN THUNDER”
GOLF CART CLUB
Offers FREE advice on buying and selling of your golf cart.
Also batteries. 562-431-6859.
HOME CARE
PERSONAL ASSISTANT
CHRISTIAN HOME CARE
Experienced, knowledgeable caregivers, honest, assertive, fluent English. Hourly/full-time, doctor’s appointments, errands. Bernadine 562-310-0280. Seal Beach Business License #BCS0002. Bonded/insured. 06/10/21
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MOST AFFORDABLE RATE affordable rates with optimum service, 23 years experience LW, reliable, honest caregivers. Licensed, 24 hour, part time, doctors, appointments, references, fluent English. Ann 714-624-1911, Heidi 562-277-3650. Seal Beach License #HYC0001. 07/01
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Maria’s experienced caregivers, run errands, Dr’s appointments, cleaning, cooking, part-time, full-time, live-in. (562) 230-4648. Seal Beach Business License #CAM0006. 03/25
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EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER
Over 20 years in Leisure World with Excellent References. Hourly or Live-in. Please Call Pampet: 562-371-4895. Seal Beach License PAN0003 03/25
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Elderly care. Live-in, live-out. 30 years of experience. Cooking, cleaning, medications, companions, doctors. Experience with dementia. Liensed by the state.
Gloria 949-371-7425. 04/15
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Blue Horizon Private Home Care and Assisted Living. A trusted team of experienced homecare providers. Here at Blue Horizon we provide COVID Care, which includes picking up prescriptions, dropping clothes off at the cleaners, housekeeping and grocery shopping. Also we help with special needs, disability injury, assistance medication management and escorting to appointments. We have an affordable hourly rate, or flat fee rate for 24-Hour care. Contact us today at 323-548-0708 to provide the personal care that’s needed to fit your needs. License #BU22020391. 03/18
HELP WANTED
Are you looking to make some extra cash while working one to two weeks per month for 6 hour shifts per day? Do you love meeting new people and talking? If you answered yes, please call us for details 714.632.7744. 02/25
BEAUTY SERVICES
Tammy Nguyen Phenix Salon – Service in private suite. One customer, one hairstylist. Sanitized & professional. Haircut for men & women, shampoo, set, color, highlights, perm, nails & toenails. In-house service available. Tammy Nguyen. 13944 Seal Beach Blvd, #116. (714) 425-4198. 02/25/20
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In home hair care, serving the men and women of Leisure World for 36 years. Mel, cell: 562-480-9341. License #KC75538. 03/18
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Yvonne from Phenix Salon is coming to your home for perms, color & cut. 714-855-8465. License K336138. 03/18
HOUSE CLEANING
MOVE-IN, MOVE-OUT
WINDOWS,
HOUSECLEANING
CALL PHIL AT
562-881-2093
Over 30 years Experience!
Seal Beach Business
License #AB0001. 03/04
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GRACIAN’S HOUSECLEANING & WINDOWS.
Windows 10% off first cleaning
General housecleaning
Excellent referrals in LW
(562) 307-3861.
20 years experience.
Seal Beach Business License gra0006. 03/11
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House cleaning/Eco-Friendly products. I’ve been working in Leisure World since 2004 and can provide references.
Lori 949-275- 8165. Seal Beach Business License SAG0003. 02/25
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Patricia House Cleaning, weekly or monthly. Excellent referrals in Leisure World. 562-397-4659 Seal Beach License LUC0001. 04/15
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MAGALY’S CLEANING SERVICE
We make your home sparkle! 7 days-call anytime! Complete cleaning. Seal Beach Business License #M0001A. Call 562-505-1613. 04/22
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General housekeeping, 30 years of experience. Bi-weekly or monthly. Seal Beach License RAZ0002. Call Gloria 949-371-7425. 04/15
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Maria House Cleaning
We’ll make your house look as
nice as possible! 15 years of
experience, We can work with your
schedule. Bi-weekly or monthly.
Deep cleaning.
Call or text 714-496-2885.
Bus. Lic #HER0008. 04/15
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ELLY’S HOUSECLEANING SERVICES
We do the work – you relax & take it easy. You get the best job in town at rates you can afford. 20 years of experience working in Leisure World. 714-476-2100. 04/29
COMPUTERS
FRUSTRATED
(562)755-6199
Everything for your computer (PC or Mac), cell phone, TV, stereo, any electronic device.
Tina Schaffer. Seal Beach Bus.
License #CIP0001 05/20/21
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John’s Computer Services
562-733-9193
Virus removal, Repair, Training,
Software, Wireless, Internet
Security. LW Resident
SB License FUH0001. 04/15
AUTOS WANTED
ANY KIND OF CAR
Cars, motorcycle, truck – running or not. We are local – call anytime! We pay cash and remove promptly!We do DMV and Release of liability for you! Bonded/Licensed, since 1985! Call us so we can come out and give you a quote. 562-684-0901. 06/03
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We Bring You
$1,500 to $6,500 Cash
Cars Trucks Vans. SUVs
Text or Call
714-808-3084
Polite Safe Local Since 1975. 04/01
Electric CarTs/ Scooters/Mobile Chairs for sale
Golf Cars BUY SELL TRADE and REPAIRS. Call: 714-292-9124. 05/13/21
TRANSPORTATION
Need a lift? Pam Miller.
LW Resident. 310-227-1258. 03/18
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Rides by Russ with a personal touch.
Airports, doctors, shopping and errands. 714-655-1544. 03/18
Autos/Boats/RV’s
Trailers FOR SALE
ELECTRIC CAR PADS
Installed at your residence. Call Frank 562-743-3832. State Contractor’s License #779462.
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2007 Nissan Murano, SUV, 6 cylinder, very clean, loaded. 108,000 miles, $6,250/offer. 562-594-9104. 02/25
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2004 HONDA ACCORD LX. $4000. 152,500 miles. Looks and runs great! Call 562-413-9536. 02/25
MOVING, HAULING &
STORAGE SERVICES
J&D HAUL AWAY AND CLEAN-UP SERVICE
No job too small, fast, reliable, great prices. Seal Beach Business License
BRA0002. Dan: 562-841-3787 03/11
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A FRIEND AND A TRUCK
Your moving service, any size job. Call 310-387-2618. Business License RO263644. 03/11
CARPORTS WANTED
Looking to rent carport 7, Mutual 15 preferred. 562-509-5887. 02/25
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE
Private Sale by Docia Drake, 714-514-8232. Thursday, Feb. 25 and Friday, Feb. 26. Collectibles galore! Royal Doulton, thimbles, miniatures, Limoges, Wedgewood, Hallmark ornaments, Annalee dolls, vintage items. Mission style furniture, beautiful floor lamps. Dressers, desk, sofa, dining table. Lots of costume jewelry and potted plants. Rollator walker. Call for appointment and address.
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Up-Walker Lite. Almost new. $100. Call 562-296-8501. 02/25
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White marble kitchen table & 8 chairs, brand new, $700 OBO. Piano, excellent condition, $500 OBO. German cookware, brand new, 17 pieces, $700 OBO. 310-504-4346. 02/25
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Furniture sale – twin bed, good condition, metal frame + box spring mattress & regular mattress + 2 brand new comforter & sheet sets, unopened, $125 for everything.
Full/queen bed, excellent condition, includes metal frame & regular mattress + box spring mattress + beautiful headboard. Includes two brand new comforter pillow cases & sheet sets, unopened. Make offer. Call for appointment. 562-446-0303. 02/25
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Official Murphy Bed for sale. Full size bed, Closet on both sides of bed for storage – Hanging, Shelves, and Drawers. $700.
You remove. 310-570-8155. 02/25
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Lightweight electric folding WHEELCHAIR, Forcemech Voyager. Immaculate. Paid $2,500.
Selling for $1,495. 661-222-9200. 02/25
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Mask required. 1910 McKinney Way, 19D. Willow Tree Angels of the Heart Collection. Guitar, music & stand. Variety of CDs – $0.50 cents each. 12 piece plus silverware, vintage doll bed and miscellaneous. 02/25
MISCELLANEOUS WANTED
Wanted to buy: Used working electronic spinet organ or used piano.
Call Joan 562-799-2048. 02/25
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I wish to purchase a working electric or manual typewriter at a fair price. Please call Karen at 323-986-8309 between 9-6. 02/25
FREE ITEMS
Free – two brand new walkers.
562-446-0303.